Below are some extracts from the Huntly Express pertaining to Glass

5 September 1863
Died at The Ward, Huntly 31 August Isobel Mellis aged 77 widow of James Wanes, Both, Glass

7 November 1863
Died at the Haugh, Glass 18 October Margaret Williamson aged 84 widow of James Malcolm.  Deceased was for upwards of fifty years the principal midwife in the district.  A Mulatto she was born in Jamaica in 1779.  Husband was a blacksmith

6 February 1864
Died at Wester Bodylair 3 February George Watt, late Boghead. Father was George Watt and Mother was Isobel Robertson. Agents for the Huntly Express were McPherson, Mill of Invermarkie and Mr Smith, shoemaker, Parkhead4 June 1864
Great storm in Glass; icicles hanging from the eaves six inches long4 June 1864
Died at Upper Bodylair 30 May John Stronach sometime farmer Quarryhead, also death of Robert Bremner aged 53 crofter, Parkhead

18 June 1864
Boy called Scott, a native of Glass, found drowned in Mill Dam at Buck, Cabrach.  He had been herding there.

30 July 1864
Glass Market.  Old grudges and ill feeling accumulated during the year were usually settled at Glass Market; many a blue eye and bruised body resulted.  Thirty years ago (1834) the Minister of Glass Rev. John Cruickshank preached on the Sunday before the Market referring to the coming event, he prayed that it might proceed peaceably.  Nowadays the present incumbent Dr Duguid does not mention it although it is far from peaceful.  Up to 8pm the few Police stationed on the hill had no occasion to interfere.  A batch of pick pockets who had been seen at Kennethmont on Monday made their way to Glass on Tuesday but were ordered off by Mr Richardson, the Superintendent of Police, they were seen to attempt to enter by a circuitous route but were forestalled.   James Littlejohn, crofter Market Road, had a calf of seven weeks sold.

2 July 1864
The late Duchess of Gordon left estate of £60,000

16 July 1864
Hoeing match at Mill of Invermarkie.  Judges were Gauld, Edinglassie; Malcolm, the Haugh; Horn, Wester Bodylair.  28 competitors.  1. George Gauld, Bodylair; 2. James Horn, farmer Howmill: 3. Susan Grant, servant, Wester Braeton: 4. Mary Bonnyman, Blalckbog: 5. George Duncan, Newton of Glenmarkie: 6. John Craig, Lettoch: 7. Wm. Craig, Lettoch: 8. Alex. Mitchell, Haugh of Glass: 9. John Gauld, Bodylair: 10. William Innes, Old Manse: 11. Jessie Strathdee, servant Quarryhead: 12. Alex Bonnyman, servant Braeton: 13. Jane Lawson, servant Mill of Invermarkie: 14. William Wraes, Torry: 15. Alex Loggie, servant Edinglassie: 16. James Forsyth, servant Edinglassie

Jessie Douglas got a prize for being first done on the field. (Note Jessie Douglas belonged to the family of Peter Douglas who had a croft at the “Slack” lying between the Upper Hilton and Easter Bodylair)  McIntosh had the adjacent croft; nothing remains of the site today.

16 July 1864
Testimonial to Mr Scott, Abrunhill and Alex McGregor, Westerpark.  Mr Taylor, Quarryhead was called to the chair.  Silver mounted snuff box presented to McGregor.  Very long article on their educational achievements.

30 July 1864
George Hay commences business as a wooled manufacturer at the Haugh Glass

27 August 1864
Mrs Shearer, Dallachy, has cut barley, this caused great controversy; it seems that the barley was not fully ripe and many others could have cut unripe barley just as early

27 August 1864
Death of George Gauld, Parkhall aged 73; he died at Torry Street, Huntly.  Left £800 to endow a Female School at Glass

3 September 1864
A letter on Glass Holiday.  Although some had gone to the Banff coast and Aberdeen, many had stayed at home and climbed the Both Hill, Straitinnan, or foregathered at the Inn at the Old Manse to be served by Mrs Wilson

3 December 1864
Presentation to Charles Gordon, postman for eleven years on the Huntly – Glass run.  The event was held at the Mill of Invermarkie.   Present were Dempster, Bogforth: Robertson, Barefolds: Robertson, cattle dealer: Alex Gordon Jnt. Auldyne: Shearer, Parkhead: George Fraser, Jnr. Greystonefaulds: Craig, Lettoch: Peter Gree, Nether Hilton: John Morrison, shoemaker Market Hill; Jas Malcolm, The Haugh;  Many toasts.  Geo Fraser, Greystonefaulds gave the toast, “Mr Grant, Beldorney”

10 December 1864
Glass Mutual Instruction Society.  John Scott, Abrunhill, Secretary: Wm Gordon, Upper Hilton, Clerk: William Lamb, Broadbog, Treasurer: William Pirie, Gowanston, Librarian.

7 January 1865
Long article on Rev Wm. Ingram of Rothiemay regarding the Disruption

8 January 1865
At Aswanly, Glass to Mrs Smith, a son (Charles)

20 January 1865
John Whyte, precentor of Glass Parish Church opened a class for music at Belnaboth to meet every Friday evening.

29 January 1865
Died at Parkhall, Glass – Elizabeth Gauld age 87 sister of the late George Gauld.  The last of their generation

March 1865
Not to be outdone Peter McGregor, precentor of the Glass Free Church also opened a class for music at his own home, to meeton Monday nights.

22 April  1865
The sowing of the seed is well ahead in Glass.  Already finished at Greystonefaulds, Torry and the Glebe

27 May 1865
A full grown otter was taken alive from the Deveron near Edinglassie and given to Mr J. Logie, plasterer Huntly in order to be preserved.  This was the first otter to be seen in Glass for forty years

1 July 1865
The great cry is still the drought, for although we have had some showers towards the end of last week and the first of this week, yet the effects of it are soon taken away with the dry scorching winds.  It would take 48 house of good rain to give the earth what it is in need of.

PEATS

If the present weather has been unfavourable for the turnip crop it has had a very favourable effect on fuel.  The drying of the peats has now commenced, where they were cut early they are very dry and in first rate order for stacking.

TURNIPS

The crop where sown early has in general come up pretty well and many places have commenced hoeing.  Hoeing matches are not so common but there was one at Bonfail last week.

1 July 1865
Mr McGregor, Cairnarget is building a new dwelling house; Mr Archibald, Succoth is also adding a new wing to his new square.  Mr Robertson, Nether Hilton is also started to build on his new farm.

4 July 1865
Married at the Market Inn, Glass on 29 June by Rev. James McDonald of Glass Free Church; Alexander Robertson to Betty Gordon, daughter of John Gordon, Inn Keeper, Market Road

8 July 1865
Some showers of rain fell this week and has helped the parched vegetation.  We had a heavy shower Tuesday 4^thevening and on Thursday 6^th we had several showers with a good deal of thunder.  The hoeing is now in full swing I the parish

15 July 1865
Died at Mains of Aswanly, Glass on 12 July James Smith, farmer there.

18 July 1865
James Smith died at Mains of Aswanly at about eight pm on Wednesday 12 July aged 42 years.  He had been in declining health for some years, but till within a fortnight of his death, death was not expected to be so near.  There are people who live in the world and if it is none the worse of them, it’s decidedly none the better, they having too many selfish ends to gratify to be of use to their fellow man.  Such however, could not be said of Mr Smith.  Being possessed of considerable intelligence and a stock of sound common sense, he was a most useful member of society and when in health, one that took a great interest in anything for the benefit of the community.  As a master he was much respected, he was none of those who looked down upon their servants as though their own bodies were made of finer clay and their soul of purer elements, but being one who knew well what it was to work himself, he had a kind consideration for others and when able he was always sure to take the heaviest part on himself.  In short he was a kind friend and a most obliging neighbour.  Much respected by the community at large being a public spirited and excellent businessman he will be greatly missed in this locality.  He has left a widow and a family of eight, the elder of whom is not yet sixteen years.

8 August 1865
GLASS MARKET   – This is the version in the Banffshire Journal – the Huntly Express version was in similar terms.
This old established annual market commenced on Tuesday last 1^st August with the sale of sheep.  There was rather more than 2000  sheep on the ground.  A brisk demand for all classes of sheep in the earlier part of the day and a good number were sold.  Towards noon however, those who had stock unsold found that sales were not so easy at the extreme high prices asked and in many cases given in the morning  the greater part of the stock was sold. Greatest demand was for fat blackfaced ewes and ditto ewe lambs which sold at very high prices as – Duncan, Newton of Glenmarkie, a lot of ewes at 15/-. Two shearing tups at £5.8; Taylor of the Gowls had 20 wedders at 27/- each.  In the whitefaced field Mitchell, Pyketillum sold two ewes at 35/- each and three lambs at 28/- each.

On the second day 2 August Cattle were sold but a very small number were shown on account of an epidemic among cattle in some districts.  The Rev. Mr McDonald of Glass Free Church sold a cow for £17; Mr Duncan of the Corrie also sold a cow for £18; Mr Robertson, Boghead sold two one year old cows for £18

Horses a very small turnout.  A few Highland ponies sold.  A fair attendance at the harvest feeing market.  Cutters got £3.15: Bandsters got £2.10 – £3.: Women got £2. – £2.15

A stot got £13: Generally £3.5. per cwt.

August 1865
Accident at Glass Market.  A man called James Forbes, a staff manufacturer from Aberdeen was standing near the tents when a horse passing by kicked out behind and struck him severely on the left side of the head, inflicting a cut down to the very bone and about three inches in length and a small  fracture of the skull.  The poor fellow was immediately conveyed to the Police Station and Dr Mitchell having been sent for from Huntly dressed the wound.  Yesterday we were informed that the man was recovering and able to be out of bed.

21 October 1865
On Wednesday last Cumming Duff jnr. Parkhaugh was ploughing.  He went to lengthen the check rein when the horses, being spirited animals, dashed him to the ground, falling over him and bruising him severely.  Mr Duff is in a fair way to recovery.

26 October 1865 CELEBRATIONS IN GLASS for FIFE WEDDING

Being apparently satisfied tenants of their landlord, the Earls of Fife, the people of Glass were not slow in showing their appreciation – in common with all other parts of the North- East under Duff control – especially in times of joyous celebration.  The occasion of the wedding of Lady Anne Elizabeth Clemintine Duff, the eldest daughter of the 5^th Earl of Fife to John Villers-Stuart, Viscount Townshead of Raynam Hall, Norfolk on 17 October 1865 in London was no exception.

“The festivities in honour of this auspicious occasion came in Glass on Tuesday with great spirit and success.  A Public Dinner was held at Edinglassie (provided by Mrs Gordon, Market Inn, which certainly did great credit to her culinary skill) at which between 60 and 70 sat down  The chair was occupied by Mr Alex Gauld, Edinglassie, supported by Mr Geddes, Invermarkie and Mr Gray, Waterside.  Mr Bremner, Westerpark acted as croupier assisted by Mr Duncan: Mr Craig, Lettoch: Mr Duff, Parkhaugh: and Mr Wans, Belnaboth.

The Chairman in proposing the “Queen” said the Queen is beyond all question the greatest sovereign on earth; the sun never sets on her dominions and about a seventh part of the inhabitants of the earth obey her rule.  Her private and private virtues are the theme of universal praise and her domestic management is a perfect model for the cottage, the mansion and the palace.

(Loud applause)  Air “God Save the Queen”

The Chairman then gave the “Prince and Princess of Wales”.  The excellent training and example the Prince has received is a guarantee that he will make an excellent sovereign (may it be long ere we require him) over the realms of Britain; and the Princess is adorned with every grace, personal and mental, that can adorn her exalted station.

(Loud cheers)  Air “AP Sheukin”

The Chairman then proposed “Her Majesty’s Ministers” – a class of men who have conducted the government of this country with much credit to themselves and also to the Nation

(Cheers)  Air “Tullochgorum”

The Chairman then called for a full bumper to The “Army, Navy and Volunteers”  Colour Sergeant Taylor, late of the Rifle Brigade now instructor to the Huntly Volunteers briefly replied.

The Chairman then rose and said, “Gentlemen, I come now to the toast of the evening (Loud applause) I regret that I cannot do justice to this toast and that one more intimately acquainted with the subject was not found to propose it.  My information is very limited in regard to one or both parties and that little is derived from the public prints.  The Marquis of Townshead claims a very high antiquity, as high as Edward the Third and his ancestors are well and favourably known through that long period as firm adherents of the Crown and eminent in the field and in the Senate.  I believe he is a person who take a great interest in the cause of education and the elevation of the lower orders of the people.  The bride is lovely, beautiful and highly accomplished with every good grace that can adorn her high station.  Gentlemen, I beg you to drink long life and happiness to the Marquis and Marchioness of Townshead .   The toast was drunk with enthusiasm.  The piper playing “Woo’t an’ marriet’ an’ a’”

The croupier, Mr G. Bennet said “The toast I have to propose is one that needs no words from me.  The Duff family are not more honoured for their antiquity than for their urbanity and kindness to the tenantry.  The Earls of Fife, past and present, are emphatically “Live and let Live” landlords and wherever a case is known that requires mitigation, it is instantly modified.  Gentlemen, I crave a special bumper to the Earl of Fife, our worthy landlord.

(Applause)

Croupier Bennet added another toast saying, “I am sure you will drain your glasses to the next toast.  It is to a lady who is respected by everyone for her great kindness to the poor and to every case requiring aid or assistance – when made known to her – she is sure to be the foremost to help it  “The Countess of Fife”

Mr Bennet then gave his last toast, to the ladies Ida, Alexina and Agnes Duff sisters of the bride.

Among many toasts given were:-

Mr Robson, Plylands gave “The Hon. George Skene Duff”

Mr Geddes, Invermarkie gave “Mr Findlater, late Factor”

Mr Duff, Parkhaugh gave “The Clergy”

Mr Mitchell, Picktillum gave “Mr Duff of Glassaugh MP for Banffshire”

Mr Bennet, Parkhall gave “Col. Sykes MP”

Mr McIrvine, Hillside gave “ Col. Stewart of Lesmurdie”

Mr Bonnyman, Blackbog gave “Major Duff of Drumuir”

In addition to those at the top table already mentioned the following are among those observed: – Mavor, Cairnmore: Brander, Cairnmore: McIrvine, Brownhill: Meldrum, cattle dealer: Leiper, Picktillum: Wm Gordon, Upper Hilton: P. Green, Nether Hilton: Robertson, Barefolds: Morrison (shoemaker) Market Hill: Fraser, Greystonefaulds: Simon, Torry: Robertson, Boghead: Alex and James Smith, Aswanly: Alex and Wm Robertson, Boghead: Rankin, Terryhorn: Gordon, Newbigging: Gordon, Malack: Robson, Plylands: Bonnyman, Blackbog: Gartly, Auchinhandoch: Horn, Howmill: Archibald, Succoth: Wm Archibald, Succoth: Simpson, Belcherrie: Duncan, Lynebain: Duffus, Dallachie: Robertson, Invermarkie: McPherson, Mill of Invermarkie: Grant, Haugh: Aberdein, Merchant, Haugh: Robertson, Haugh: Wilson, Haugh: Gordon, Aldyne: Taylor, Quarryhead: Smith, Glenmarkie: Stephen, Chapelhill: J. Stewart, Chapelhill: John Robson, Greens: Gauld, Glenbeg: Robertson, Bonfail: Gauld, Heatherygall: Stronach, Townhead: Gauld Jnr. Edinglassie: McGrimmon, Abrunhill etc etc

THE BONFIRES

A great bonfire was erected on the top of the Market Hill which shone out brightly and illuminated the scene a long way around.  Messrs. Lamb, Broadbog,: Robertson, Invermarkie and Gauld, Bodylair sent their horses and carts and collected wood – and Mr Gauld, Heatherygall sent a load of peats to kindle the fire.  It was erected and lighted by Messrs Wm Lamb, Broadbog and J. Fettes, Corsmaul.  Mr Mitchell, Picktillum assisted by Mr Brander, Cairnmore erected another bonfire on the Norrie Hill.  Mrs Mitchell gave the people who collected it a glass of spirits to drink the health of the Noble pair, which was done with great cheering and she afterwards kindly entertained the whole company to a sumptuous tea.

THE BALL

Shortly after eight o’clock all the roads leading towards Edinglassie became thickly dotted with people hurrying to the Ball which was opened shortly before nine o’clock by Messrs Mitchell, Fraser, Morrison and Simon, having for partners, Mrs Gauld, Edinglassie: Mrs Bennet, Parkhall: Miss Robertson, Haugh and Miss Gunn, Huntly.  The company numbered between three and four hundred which necessitated the dividing of the company.  Another place having been quickly cleared, part of the happy company adjourned there, but even then the accommodation was insufficient for such a large company.  However, everyone was determined to be agreeable and even the trampling on a tender toe was taken with a smile. Dancing was kept up with great animation till between four and five o’clock in the morning.  Through the evening creature comforts were liberally dispensed by an active band of stewards.  The proceedings altogether were exceptionable and will remain green for many a day in the minds of those who participated in them.  It is but right to state that Mrs Gauld, Edinglassie, with her usual kindness, was very attentive to the comfort of all parties. A large banner waved all day from the top of Edinglassie.

2 December 1865
John Morrison, shoemaker, Glass (late of Banks, Cairnie) will now attend at Corse and Cairnie on Mondays and Tuesdays to repair boots and take orders for new boots.

10 February 1866
To Carpenters, Masons etc.  Estimates are wanted for a new Parish School and Schoolmaster’s House to be erected in Glass.  Plans and specifications will be seen at the office of the Factor at Fife-Keith where offers must be lodged at noon on Friday 23 curt.  The lowest offers may not be accepted.

17 February 1866
Some two or three months ago a movement began among the young folks in this part to obtain some instruction in the art of dancing when they procured the services of Mr Adam Myren, Dufftown, teacher of that department.  Mr Wilson, Old Manse kindly gave the use of his threshing mill for a meeting place.  Accordingly, a large number has met two or three nights every week for two months and the progress that has been made reflects great credit on both teacher and scholars.  The proceedings were brought to a close on Monday night last by a finishing ball.  The young people being willing to try their legs on a wooden floor asked Mr Simon, Torry, for the use of his fine grain loft, which he at once granted, where they met about 9 pm.  The Ball was a very spirited one, being not only attended by the pupils but also several of their parents and a number of young lads and bonny lasses.  The music was first rate and was given by Messrs A & C Myren, Mr Hay Davidson from Huntly playing the violincello.  Refreshments were liberally served during the night and all parted in the best of spirits at a late hour in the morning.

3 March 1866
New Parish School and Schoolhouse for Glass.  The contracts for this new undertaking were entered into yesterday week when the following were the successful parties: – Mason, Mr Loggie, Fochabers: Carpenter, Mr Naughty, Dufftown: Slater, Mr Findlay, Keith: Plasterer, Mr Logie, Huntly.

The site of the school is on the upper side of the Glass and Cabrach road, and between the farm of Invermarkie and the Haugh of Glass and will be very central for the Parish.

3 March 1866  Presentation
On Wednesday evening last, at the close of the congregational prayer meeting Mr James Bonnyman, Blackbog in the name of the members of the Free Church of Glass, presented the Rev Mr McDonald their Minister with an elegant pulpit gown and Cannock.  Mr McDonald in his reply said that when he came to Glass 23 years ago (1843) there was no manse and only a temporary church but now a very comfortable church and manse entirely free of debt.

3 November 1866
On Saturday last the wife of Mr J. Strachan, carpenter, Market Hill came by a rather serious accident by the breaking of a bottle.  She was lifting some full bottles up to a shelf above her and as she was lifting one of them by the neck, it suddenly split, just when she had raised it to a level with the shelf and a large and sharp fragment of it struck her on the arm and left a deep cut of about 4 inches.  Until medical aid was procured, the blood ran incessantly, every effort to stay it proving fruitless.  Dr Mitchell from Huntly was soon in attendance and had the wound sewed.  Mrs Strachan is much weakened by the loss of blood, but continues to improve.

1 December 1866
A special meeting of the Mill of Invermarkie Sucken will be held at Edinglassie on Monday first the 28^th inst at four o’clock pm.  Signed by three fourths of the Sucken.  ( Sucken – The lands of an estate on which there was an obligation to grind corn at a designated mill. Proprietors or tenants of these lands were called suckeners. )

Invermarkie Mill.  As duly advertised in last week’s Huntly Express a special meeting of the Suckeners of this Mill was held at Edinglassie on the evening of Monday last.  There were present:- Alex Gauld, Edinglassie: James Malcolm, Haugh: Wm Robertson, Bonfail: James Taylor, Quarryhead: Alex Horn, Bodylair: John Gauld, Easter Bodylair: Wm Craig, Lettoch: Alex Gordon, Auldyne: Thomas Duncan, Newton of Glenmarkie: James Smith, Glenmarkie: George Gauld, Aldnapodack: Wm Muirden, Aldnapodack: James Gauld, Little Hillockhead: James Barclay, Hillockhead: Alex Dey, Midton: Wm Gordon, Upper Hilton: Peter Green, Nether Hilton: George Fraser, Greystonefaulds: John Simon, Torry: James Innes for James Wilson Old Manse: James Duffus, Dallalchie: James Robertson, Invermarkie.  Letters were read from Peter Strachan and Alex Forbes, Netherton and from Mrs Smith, Glenbeg.

Mr James Taylor, Quarryhead who was called to the Chair, stated that the first thing necessary to be done was to read a minute of a meeting held at the School of Glass on the 13^th curt.  No books being forthcoming, three of the Sucken were sent for them, but they were not granted.  As a great deal of angry feeling had been the result of that meeting, we may state that about the year 1790, or as near to that as we can gather, the MULTURES OF THIS Mill were bought up from the Heritor (the Proprietor still retaining a claim to himself) by the Sucken and since that time they have let the Mill and Croft and collected the rents, which were divided according to each person’s claim.  Three managers were elected for the purpose of seeing that the agreement between the miller and Sucken is duly implemented on both sides and for settling any dispute that may arise.

Since the present miller became tenant (20 years ago) matters have gone on very satisfactorily and would still have been the case were it not that there are in every society men who would not hesitate to turn their neighbour adrift, if it were the means of putting a few additional coppers into their own pockets.  (We would not say that any of the broad cloth gentry would do this; it would be presumption, if not sacrilege, to say so)

At a meeting held on the 13^th inst. Mr Ramsay,, Braeton, one of those who wished a higher rent for the mill, proposed that Messrs Geddes, Invermarkie: Gauld, Heatherygall and Gray, Waterside be elected Trustees which was done.  These Trustees proposed to raise the rent of the Mill from £13 to £25.  The Sucken, however, would not hear of this proposal, and as matters were likely to go against these men the Rev Dr Duguid proposed that the affair should be left entirely to the Trustees to settle for the best benefit of the Sucken, as he had perfect confidence in them.  He then left the meeting, while one of the nominated Trustees cried out, “the meeting is dissolved” although the Chairman intimated no such thing.

The Sucken by this time began to see that it was wished to take the matter out of their hands, but they would tolerate no such course.  They had come together for the purpose of letting the Mill, and they would do so before they left.  One of them proposed that the rent should be £15.  The miller was called in and asked if he was willing to give that sum, which he agreed to do.  The Chairman then declared the Mill let.  However, these new Managers had annoyed the miller by threatening to advertise the premises in the public prints as to let and give him so chance if he would not admit to them that the mill was still to let.  To this he could not agree – hence the present meeting.

The Chairman said no books were to be had in the meantime, he would go on with such documents as he had and he would first read  a note from Mr Bennet, Parkhall.

It ran as follows  –  I hereby certify that the Croft and Mill Invermarkie were only let by a decided majority of the Suckeners, within the Parish School of Glass on Tuesday the 13^th November curt to James McPherson, the present tenant, at an annual rent of £15.  The lease to commence from Martinmas 1866.

Signed  George Bennet, Chairman of said meeting.  Parkhall 26 November 1866

He now asked the meeting if they adhered to this document, which they unanimously agreed to do.  Several regulations were proposed and carried.  The most important being that the miller must insure fifty quarters of grain – the insurance money to be retained by the miller off the rent payable to the Suckeners.  A minute was taken of the whole proceedings of the meeting and duly attested by the Chairman and Clerk pro tem.

A hearty vote of thanks was given to Mr Gauld for his kindness in giving them a meeting-place, and also to the Chairman and Clerk.  Thereafter the meeting separated – the proceedings of the evening being most agreeable.  We should have stated that the croft of Upper Mill was also let to the present occupant (John Howie) at the annual rent of £2.

19 January 1867
Dinner to James McPherson, Mill of Invermarkie, Glass.  Having been tenant of the Mill for 20 years the Sucken and others in this quarter resolved to show their respect for him by entertaining him to a public dinner which took place at the Glass Manse Innon Friday 11st last being Old New Year even.  About half past four o’clock  pm forty five gentlemen sat down to an excellent and sumptuous dinner prepared by Mrs Wilson and served up by an active band of Stewards.  Wm Wans farmer Belnaboth occupied the Chair supported on the right by the guest of the evening and Mr Taylor, Quarryhead and on the left by Rev Mr McDonald, Free Manse and Mr Bremner, Westerpark.  Mr John Archibald, Succoth acted as croupier supported on the right by Mr Horn, Bodylair and on the left by Mr Pirie, Gowanston.  Present were;- Gartly, Auchinhandoch; Bonnyman, Blackbog: Duff, Netherton: Robson, Plylands: McGregor, Westerpark: A. & J. Smith, Aswanly: Robertson, cattle dealer: Morrison, Market Road: Jas & Wm Lamb, Broadbog: Gauld, Bodylair: Gauld, Hillockhead: Robertson, Sheals: Geo. Duncan, Glenmarkie: Bonnyman, Braeton: Gordon, Auldyne: Craig, Lettoch: Sutherland, Glenend: Grant, Blacksmith: Robertson, Malcolm and Bremner, Haugh: Aberdein, merchant, the Haugh: Robson, Greens: Gauld jnr. Edinglassie: Robertson,, Invermarkie: Duffus, Dallachie: Fraser, Greystonefaulds: Fraser, Torry etc.  Rev Mr McDonald asked a blessing and the croupier returned thanks.  Many votes of thanks.  Mr McPherson spoke of how it was not twenty years since he came to Glass and he had now entered a new lease of the Mill etc.  Robertson, Barefolds spoke, as did Horn, Bodylair and Gauld, Hillockhead among many others.  The party separated at 9 pm all highly pleased.

26 January 1867
George Fyfe died at Corshalloch Saturday 19 January.  He was for 50 years an extensive cattle dealer, well known especially in Morayshire at Forres and Elgin Markets.  He was tenant of two farms, Corshalloch and Picktillum both of whom are now occupied by two sons in law.  Had been confined to the house for a number of years.  A lively fellow he had a superior education to most of his fellows, to some extent “college bred”; could talk fluently on many subjects.  The life and soul of any party.  Buried at Glass Churchyard.  Fyfe was born in 1793

9 March 1867
Presentation at the Haugh Sabbath School by the scholars to their teachers John Aberdein: James McPherson: Mr William S. Milne, Haugh made the presentation of Bibles

March 1867
The Parish School of Glass taught by Mr Stephen was examined Monday last by Dr Duguid, the Minister

30 March 1867
The wildest days we have seen.  Snow

25 May 1867
At a meeting held at Edinglassie on Monday last, Mr John Archibald, Succoth, presiding, it was resolved to celebrate the marriage day of Lady Ida Duff by a public Dinner and Ball both to be held at Edinglassie.  Most of the parish of Glass was then owned by the Duff’s, Earls of Fife and Lady Ida Louise Alice born 10 December 1848 was the second daughter of the 7^th Earl of Fife.  Lady Ida married in London 3 June 1867 (firstly) Adrian Elias Hope, Esq.,: this marriage was dissolved in November 1873: she married (secondly) 20 September 1880 William Wilson, Esq.

14 July 1867
At a hoeing match held on a farm tenanted by Rev. Dr Duguid (the Glebe) 26 hoers started at 7am.  The judges were Mr Fraser, Greystonefaulds; Mr Cameron, overseer, Cairnborrow and Mr Legge, overseer, Aswanly and they had a very difficult task deciding the winners.

1. William Gordon, Boghead
2. James Innes, Old Manse:
3. Alexander Innes, Old Manse:
4. James Stronach, Mill of Invermarkie
5. David McCulloch, Parkhaugh
6. John Robson, Boghead:
7. James Smith, Mains of Aswanly
8. Alex Smith, Mains of Aswanly:
9. Adam Gilchrist, Torry

A goodly number of spectators visited the field.  The Rev. Dr Duguid gave a handsome sun of money for prizes.

3 August 1867  A hoeing match in a field belonging to Mr McPherson of Invermarkie Mill.  Among the judges was Mr Fraser, Greystonefaulds.  In a field of 37 Competitors Peter Fraser, Greystonefaulds came 14^th (last)

7 September 1867
There was also much comment on Sunday hoeing in Glass at this time.  One writer commented: –

“Sir, Let me say Sabbath being a very fine day I promised to go to Glass and see some old friends.  On looking round me I saw a very snug farmer’s wife very busily employed in the fields hoeing potatoes, along with some others and going to the well and cleaning them for dinner.  Surely morality is at a low ebb in Glass to be doing such work at the time of Divine Service”

 12 October 1867
On Wednesday 9 October Mr Stephen, schoolmaster of Glass was waited upon by a deputation headed by Rev. Dr Duguid and presented with a purse of sovereigns and a cosy chair on which was inscribed – Presented to Arthur Stephen, Schoolmaster of Glass for the last thirty years. 8 October 1867

7 December 1867
The leases on Waterside, Torry, Invermarkie and Barefolds being about expired, those farms were examined some ten days ago by Mr Hannah, Corskie Bank, Lawson, Oldmills and Stewart, Fife Keith (Factor for the district)  The tenants this week have got renewal of leases on very favourable terms, which, we understand, are satisfactory to all concerned.  The lease of one of the farms increased, the others the same.  Mr Gray, Waterside was specially complimented on the tidiness of his farm.

27 December 1867
Death at Nether Dumeath of James Gauld age 79.  The soldier of Peninsular War fame.  Given pension by the Duke of Richmond.

1 February 1868  On the night of Monday last 27 January, the body of a man called James Fettes, cattleman at Milltown, Aswanly, tenanted by Mr Gordon Rhind, was found the Mill Dam there.  The circumstances of this distressing case are, we believe, as follows: –

When Fettes came into his dinner that day, being rather later than usual, the servant maid remarked that she had been looking for him, whereupon he replied, “I suppose you would not have looked in the dam for me?”  The servant girl replied that she had not, asking that would have been about the last place she would have looked for him.  Fettes then took his dinner as usual, after which he left the house to drive out the cattle.  This was the last time he was seen in life.  Shortly after, the cattle were observed to be straying about the place and the servant girl, being the only person about the premises, went out in search of him.  The girl’s search was in vain and when the other servant named Green returned from Huntly in the evening, she informed him that Fettes was missing.  Green immediately began to seek for him and after looking in vain in every imaginable direction he though it advisable to let the water out of the dam which he did, when he observed the body lying in the south or east side of the dam.  Green having obtained the assistance of the people at Aswanly got the body lifted out of the dam and removed to the farm.  Notice was immediately sent to Constable Cruickshank, Glass, but not being within his jurisdiction, Constable Mennie, Cairnie was called, who reported the case to the authorities.  By instructions of the Fiscal, the body was examined by Dr Wilson, Huntly on the afternoon of Wednesday last.  The body when found, bore no mark of violence and the man had apparently died without a struggle.  Part of a hoe, used for cleaning out the forestalls, was found clenched in his hands; and we may mention that the place where the body was found is the most shallow part of the dam, there being not over two feet of water above the body.  After the body was found, the sad significance of Fettes’s apparently idle remark when going to his dinner, forcibly recurred to the servant girl’s mind.  Deceased was a strongly build muscular young man of only 18 years of age and is a native of the parish of Keith.  He was married about a year ago and has one child.  His wife lives in Huntly and information of the sad affair was communicated to her next morning.  The body of the unfortunate man was interred in the Churchyard of Glass on Thursday last.

29 February 1868  It will be remembered that at a ploughing match held at Edinglassie Alex Gauld, Heatherygall took 1^st prize.  Immediately after, James Robson, Chapelhill, who was an unsuccessful competitor at that match challenged the first prize winner to a trial and £1 on each side was staked for the contest.  Each had to plough with the same horses and same plough, but they were at liberty to get the plough irons sharpened to suit themselves.  Accordingly, Mr Duncan, Glenmarkie gave them a pair of horses and a plough and also ground for the work and on Saturday last the affair was decided, when the judges, who were all practical ploughmen, had no difficulty in awarding the honour to James Robson. “Let him that thinketh he standeth, take heed les he fall”

28 March 1868
Contracts awarded for the erection of a new dwelling house at Westerpark.

23 May 1868
John Whyte precentor at Glass Parish Church presented with an 8 day clock and a family Bible for his service

7 June 1868
Great gale in Glass

July 1868
At Glass Market Mr Fraser, Greystonefaulds sold two stots at £17 the pair and a quey at £11

August 1868
A sow belonging to Mrs Smith, Aswanly produced a litter of 20 pigs; the same sow earlier had a littler of 20 pigs. (40 pigs in 2 litters)

25 September  Glass Holiday.
Manders Circus was at Huntly that day and was a great attraction

September 1868
Fire at part of the steading of Cairnborrow

2 January 1869
Charles Gordon the Post between Huntly and Glass retires.  Had been post since 1842 was given a pension of £15 a year

July 1869
Accident to Mrs Bremner, Parkhead was descending from a cart of peats when her leg became entangled in the spokes of a wheel.  She was seriously damaged but will recover

6 November 1869
A cricket match was to have been played between Glass Cricket Club and Huntly Gordon Cricket Club but owing to the bad weather the Huntly eleven did not appear.  The Glass Club however played a match between themselves and dined joyfully at Edinglassie and finished the day with a Ball.  The Glass Club say the Huntly team lost a jolly dinner and a good Ball, if not a good “licking”

11 December 1869
Several parties have resolved to keep Christmas and New Year new style for the time to come and we have little doubt but that all parties will be unanimous in the matter.

11 December 1869
John Strachan has been missing for about a fortnight.  He crossed the Deveron by the wooden bridge below Tomnaven and went through that farm in the direction of the Grumack Hill.

8 January 1870
A hen belonging to J. Morrison, Chapelhill, Glass produced a brood of seven chickens; very unusual for this time of the year.

22 January 1870
Auchindoun: very hard winter; a time of sprains, broken bones etc. made well by a visit to Mr McConnachie, bone setter Aberlour.

28 May 1870
A public meeting of tenant farmers in Glass for a discussion of the Game Laws was held in the Old Manse Inn.  The attendance which was not numerous included Bremner, Westerpark: Jas Robertson, Barefolds and Duff Parkhaugh.

9 July 1870
The hanging of seventeen members of Clan Chattan (McIntosh) at Edinglassie by Sir George Gordon of Edinglassie in July 1688 is recalled.  Mr Stephen, Chapelhill has recently reclaimed the moss where the seventeen were buried.  It was noticed the other day in passing the spot a stone dyke had been built round the spot where they are buried.  The place was formerly marked by a small cairn and we have heard several old people state that they have seen pieces of their tartan Croping at the place.  Considering the passing of so many years this is very unlikely.  (According to the Scots dictionary Croping means yielding a crop)

15  October 1870
A messenger is despatched early every Saturday from the Express office to the Haugh of Glass with newspapers and delivers subscribers copies all the way up round by Westerton, Broadland etc.

22 October 1870
The Duke of Richmond walked from Gordon Castle to Elgin a distance of ten miles to attend the County Meeting.  The Countess of March and Lady Cecilia Bingham later visited Elgin and drove home with His Grace.

19 November 1870
Wm Craig of the Lettoch on his way to Dufftown on the forenoon of 12 November when he suddenly came on the body of a woman lying on the road almost opposite Alnaboyle – he went for help to Alnaboyle.  The woman was Jane Gordon or Grant wife of John Gordon a cottager at the farm of Boghead, Auchindoun not known how she came to be on that road at the time.

28 January 1871
The farm of Milltown of Asswanly occupied by John Rhind, Huntly has been acquired by the adjoining tenant Mrs Smith, Mains of Aswanly.  The arrangement was, we believe contemplated thirteen years ago (1858) but owing to circumstances the consideration of which respects credit on those having the management of the property – could not then be conveniently carried out.

25 March 1871
Lecture on Huntly 200 years ago by Rev. Robt. Troup

29 April
A meeting of the Sucken the Mill of Invermarkie held at Edinglassie.  Mill 1^st to Mr McPherson; all parties agreeable.  A Petition against the Education Bill before Parliament has been got up by the Established Church of Glass

June 3 1871

The old bridge across the Markie, at the Haugh of Glass, is just being taken down previous to being rebuilt.  The present arch will be allowed to stand, but the side walls have to be taken down.

8 June 1871
The annual sale of cattle at the Nether Hilton.  Seller has to confirm that all cattle are free from Foot and Mouth Disease

10 June 1871
Contracts settled for new dwelling house at Terryhorn.  Mason, Watt & Imlach, Huntly, carpenter, Robt. Grant, Longhill; Plasterer, Mr Wilson, Keith; Slater, Jas Shearer, Glass

26 August 1871
Glass Holiday a picnic on the Market Hill.  Heavy rain fell about noon.  A tent was erected when flags and bunting flew.  At 2 o’clock Mr Hugh Sim  from Keith arrived in full Highland dress with bagpipes playing, arrived at the head of a procession from the Haugh.  Tea was served in the tent to over 100 people.  But the rain was too heavy for the tent and Mr McPherson kindly gave them the loft at the Mill when all went there and danced to a late hour.

25 November 1871
A quantity of tea was distributed among the poor of Glass.  A total of 77 persons from Glass attended a Ball at Duff House in celebration of the majority of Lord Macduff.

6  January 1872
Mr Alex. Robertson, cattle dealer Glass having become the tenant at Graystone at Whitsuntide last, it was resolved to give him a help with ploughing.  Accordingly, on Thursday last 54 ploughmen with their teams assembled and gave him a good “yoking”.  It is but justice to the men to say that the world altogether was really well done, considering that most of the ground was old lea, and had not been cultivated for many years.  This was the largest turn out of ploughs ever seen together in Glass and shows the respect with which Mr  Robertson is held in this quarter.  Refreshments were plentifully supplied by Mr Robertson both to ploughmen and spectators (Note this Robertson belonged a very old Glass family.  Known as the “couper” Scots word a cattle or horse dealer, he married Betty Gordon.

24 February 1872
As the great Education Bill was the subject of much comment letters to the Editor began to appear. “Having heard that the late Mr Gauld, Parkhall left £800 to assist education in Glass what has become of it.  Is it done or lying in store?”

2 March 1872
The reply came in part “Besides the £800, our Lord Fife gifted the school building to the parish for female education. (This would have been the original parochial school situated close by the church – which became the Female School in January 1872 – it survived in that capacity until 31 May 1889)

7 March 1872
A meeting was held in the Parish School of Glass on Monday last to sign a petition against the Lord Advocates Education Bill.

16 March 1872  Mr McCombie MP Presented a Petition to Parliament from the Parish of Glass against the Scotch Education Bill.

3 August 1872
Glass Market.  Over 40 Irish cattle were on the Hill suffering from Foot and Mouth Disease.  A paling was erected and they were fenced in near the Hill.  Many farmers and dealers did not buy when the news came through.

7 December 1872
Death of John Strachan, Timberford, one of the famous four “John’s” (John Archibald, Succoth: John Robson, Plylands and John Gordon, Upper Hilton) who became the first elders of Glass Free Church in 1842.  It is hoped that the Chapelhill Sunday School, with which he was so deeply associated, will carry on.

5 January 1873
Death of Betty McWilliam age 43 wife of George Fraser, Greystonefaulds, Glass.  Friends at a distance will please accept of this intimation.

26 June 1873
Death at Huntly Prison, Deveron Street, Huntly of William Ingram age 73 prison officer.  Joined the 92^nd Gordon Highlanders and was slightly wounded at Waterloo: thought to be the last of the Waterloo veterans in the North.  Had been twenty years in Huntly.

12 July 1873
Proposal to build a school at Butterwards for the convenience of those pupils living in that part of Glass.  This was to become known as the Beldorney School.

12 July 1873
Lhanbryde Church petition the Home Secretary that Rev Charles Gordon be elected their Minister.  He was born at Wester Boghead, Glass in 1835.

8 September 1873
A Smith of Aswanly (does not state which one) and two others charged with fishing in the river Deveron.  They pled that since time immemorial fishing had been allowed by the Duke of Fife.  Smith’s case was defaulted on the grounds that it could not be proved that he was fishing for salmon.

3 January 1874
Ploughing match at the Mains of Aswanly.  Sleet and snow fell most of the day.  Twenty seven teams entered.  Prize for being the oldest ploughman went to Geo. Fraser, Greystonefaulds.  Prize for having the neatest ends went to the same man.  Later a dinner was held at the Old Manse Inn when 47 gentlemen sat down to a sumptuous repast prepared by Mrs Wilson.  Many toasts were drunk and several songs sung.  The meeting separated at 9 pm Afterwards the young men and their partners had a dance together, music was provided by Messrs Grant, blacksmith, Haugh and J. Morrison, Chapelhill.

17 January 1874
On Monday last a deputation waited on Mr McIrvine, merchant, Hillside, Glass when he was presented with a gold watch and chain and locket bearing the inscription – Presented to Wm McIrvine, merchant, Glass by his wide circle of friends etc.  Mr McIrvine suitably replied.  Songs were sung by Messrs Morrison and Stewart, Huntly and by Alex and James Smith, Aswanly.

28 February 1874
Death at Balvenie of James Findlater age 75, Factor for the Upper part of the Fife Estates in Glass.  We have seen him some forty years ago (1834) standing on top of the Market Hill for hours under a burning sun literally besieged by farmers and cottars all of whom had something to say to the “Factor”

28 February 1874
On Wednesday last it blew a very strong gale in Glass causing much damage to houses etc.  On the same day Miss Guthrie, teacher at the Glass Female School was presented by her pupils with a handsome silver mounted work-box.  The presentation was made by Dr Duguid, Minister of Glass Established Church.

28 March 1874
Presentation to the post.  A committee of subscribers met at the Market Inn on Saturday last.  There was present Messrs D. Bruce, Broadland; Dempster, Bogforth: Wilson, blacksmith: Craigen, Backtack: Gray, Waterside: Wm Robertson, Boghead: Gauld, Bodylair: Robertson, Barefolds:  Along with these wee Mr John Simon, Torry and Mr Alex Robertson, Greystone.  Mr Robertson, Barefolds in the name of the subscribers presented Mr John Gordon with a very handsome riding pony and a purse containing upwards of £6. As a token of respect for the very efficient and obliging manner in which he discharged the duties of Post Runner between Glass and Huntly.  Mr Gordon in thanking the committee and subscribers observed that the kindness of the community to him left no room for such a gift, that if he in any way pleased the public it was only his humble attempt to do his duty and such an unlooked for testimonial on their part ought to stimulate him to greater exertions to serve them.  He again thanked the committee and subscribers for their great kindness.  Mr and Mrs Gordon (the parents of the Post) hospitably entertained the company and a most harmonious and agreeable evening they spent together.

20 June 1874
Fire at Wester Bodylair occupied by Alex. Horn.  An orra house was destroyed but no other damage done.  Believed some tramps passing on the road had caused the blaze.

31 October 1874
Death at 1 Castle Street, Huntly of Charles Gordon age 67 (born 1807)  He had for many years carried the mail between Glass and Huntly.

24 October 1874
The new Wallakirk foot bridge that was carried away by the floods in August is now repaired.  It is two feet higher than formerly.

21 November 1874
There is a rumour that the Earl of Fife has sold the Daugh of Cairnborrow in Glass to a Mr Stephenson.  The Daugh consists of the two Boghead’s, Belnaboth: Parkhall: the Mains of Cairnborrow: the Torry and Waterside (apart from one field at the latter place)

9 January 1875
The storm of last Friday was the fiercest that has been experienced in this quarter for many a year.  Roads were completely blocked with great wreaths of snow.  In several cases window panes were broken and not a few houses were snowed up.  We also learn that sheep were drifted off and taking shelter in hollow places, were snowed over and suffocated.  Beyond this we have heard of nothing serious.  We may state that a number of people turned out yesterday (Thursday) and opened the road to Huntly.

23 January 1875
Death in Bogie Street, Huntly of Thomas Snowball age 75.  Mr Snowball was born at Malton, Yorkshire and entered the service of the Marquis of Huntly in 1822 as a groom and continued with him until his death – as Duke of Gordon – in 1836, in that capacity he appears to have been a confidential servant of the Duke.  After the Duke’s death Mr Snowball was retained by the Duchess and remained with her, although he had little to do, as an attached servant until her death in 1864.

23 January 1875
Ploughing match at Edinglassie.  Thirty one ploughs entered the contest.   Winners as follows;-  1 William Mitchell, Picktillum. 2 Alex Innes, Old Manse 3 John Craig, Lettoch 4 James Smith, Mains of Aswanly 5 James Adam, Cairnborrow 6 Thomas Duff, Hillockhead 7 John Wilson, Dillybrae 8 Alex. Dey, Midton 9 James Craigen, Glenshee 10 Thomas Strachan, Netherton 11 William Ferguson, Glenmarkie 12 James Sim, Braeton 13 William Duncan, Waterside of Gouls 14 James Spence, Mains of Aswanly

Creature comforts were liberally supplied by Mr and Miss Gauld.  Afterwards a company of 68 dined together in the Mill of Edinglassie

20 March 1875
Mr McCulloch, Burnside, Glass having fallen a little behind with his ploughing it was resolved by his neighbours to give him a friendly lift and on Thursday 18^th a goodly number of teams were on the ground by eight o’clock.  All the teams had finished their respective tasks within the allotted time and their work done in a very creditable manner.  Results: Harness;- 1 J. Robson, Greenbog; 2 Wm Milne, Chapelhill; 3 J. Robertson, Bonfail: 4 Wm Crail, Townhead; 5 G. Milne, Glenbeg; 6 J. Gauld, Heatherygall; 7 Wm Mitchell, Timberford; 8 R. Tow, Chapelhill.

Ploughing;- 1 Wm Milne; 2 Wm Mitchell; 3 J. Robson; 4 William McDonald, Forkins; 5 J. Gauld; 6 Wm Crail; 7 T. Thomson, Glenbeg; 8 J. Robertson; 9 G. Milne; 10 J. Stewart, Chapelhill; 11 G. Robertson, Blacklug; 12 J. Stronach, Midton

During the day Mr and Mrs McCulloch kept the party well supplied with creature comforts and afterwards the judges and friends were entertained to an excellent dinner prepared by Mrs McCulloch and spent a happy evening under the presidence of Mr Robson, Greens.

15 May 1875
Death of George Watt, Frosterseat, Glass This respected individual, after a long period of great suffering, passed away from among us on Friday 7 May at the comparatively early age of 36 years.  When a young man he enlisted in the Scots Fusilier Guards and when the war broke out with Russia in 1854 he was in the battle of the Alma with that regiment.  There he was wounded by a musket ball which entered one of his cheeks and came out near the back of his neck.  For nearly two days and a night he lay on the battlefield, drenched with rain and mud being unable to rise or speak, although sensible.  At last he was picked up by some Frenchmen and ultimately conveyed to the hospital at Soutari, where he partially recovered.  After his return to this country he was not considered fit for further service and he was discharged with a small pension.  For a number of years after his return to his native parish his health was pretty good and he earned a good deal, being very steady.  But his constitution – which had been before undermined – latterly gave way and last autumn disease in the bone of his left knee laid him up.  He suffered great pain from this and as a last resource, at his own wish, Dr Wilson amputated the limb on the 8^th March last and although we understand that gentleman had little hope of his recovery from the first, yet he had much less pain, after the leg was taken off – as he himself told us, he suffered more in one hour before than what he did since the amputation.  He gradually sank until last Friday week, when he breathed his last, having obtained a good hope through grace.  He was a man of considerable intelligence and during his long and severe sickness was most cheerful and contented.  He leaves a widow and four young girls to mourn his loss.

15 May 1875
Glass Parochial Elections.  At a meeting of the ratepayers held in the Parish Church yesterday John Simon, Torry and George Fraser, Greystonefaulds were reselected to serve on the Glass Parochial Board for the next twelve months.

24 May 1875
Died at 34 Torry Street, Huntly on 29^th inst. Helen Smith age 84 widow of John Fettes, Corsmaul, Glass.  Deeply regretted. Friends at a distance will accept of this intimation.

12 June 1875
A large quantity of wood will be sold in the plantation of Straitinnan, Aswanly, Glass; mostly of larch.  Sale begins at 10 o’clock on the east corner of the wood, adjoining the farm of Milton of Aswanly.

12 June 1875
Report that Mrs Abe Lincoln was certified insane and placed in an asylum at Batavia, Illinois.  She began to have delusions soon after her husband’s death and her son Robert had her certified.

12 June 1875
Tenders wanted for tradesmen to build a new school and teacher’s house at Beldorney, Glass.  Plans and specifications can be seen at A. M. McKenzie, architect, Elgin.

12 June 1875
At a meeting of Glass School Board the following were the successful candidates for the building of the new Beldorney School.     Mason: Mr Barclay, Newmill: Carpenter. W. Dey, Huntly: Slater. Barclay, Huntly; Plasterer. McIntosh, Keith: Plumber. Barclay, Keith.  Estimates in all being £917.

It was stated in some quarters that there has been a great mistake made as to the site of these buildings and the Parish in general is very ill pleased.  Had the school been erected on the Earl of Fife’s property on Demeath, where it should have been, we believe it would have saved about one third of the cost because the buildings would have been contracted for twelve months ago and money would have been saved in many ways.

26 June 1875
A new road from the Mains of Cairnborrow though the farm of Brownhill, Glenshee and Ardonald and on to Cairnie is to be contracted for.  About one mile long.

17 July 1875
The new road from Cairnborrow to Blackhill will be built by John Rennie, Huntly and Alex. Cameron, Glass; they having been 1/2d (one halfpenny) below the other offerers. Road will be about 1630 yards long and will cost, besides cartage, £150.

14 August 1875
A daily Post Runner has been established by Government between Haugh of Glass and the Lower Cabrach, without any guarantee from the people in the district as formerly.

18 August 1875
Died at Aberdeen 14 August William McCracken MD Insch.  He was at one time assistant to old Dr Wilson, Huntly.

18 September 1875
Death of James Bonnyman at Wellhead, Enzie, age 88.  Born at Cairnie in 1787 he joined the 92^nd (Gordon Highlanders) when he was eighteen.  Served throughout the Peninsular War; was wounded at the battle of Vitoria 21 June 1815 when a bell entered his mouth and destroyed one of his jaws leaving him marked for life.  In the ranks at Waterloo when he was again wounded by a ball passing through his leg, a wound that kept him in hospital for a year.

24 November 1875
Died at Altnapodoch, Glass, Jane McDonald age 73 wife of George Gauld.

27 November 1875
Mr Dempster senior of Bogforth found drowned in the mill-dam at Bogforth.  All that is known is that he rose at the usual time and went to look after a cow that was ill.  Having been missed for some time a search was made in all the houses of the farm but to the horror of all about the place his body was observed about 8 o’clock singularly enough floating in the mill-dam.  The ice on the dam was broken in several places and there were indications on the bank as if he had been struggling to get out but by the time his body was found life was quite extinct.  For some time his health had been giving way and in the middle of last week when in Huntly on business it was painfully evident that he was very unlike his former self, indeed he appeared so weak as to render him unfit to be from home alone.  He leaves a widow and a grown up son, the only child.

25 December 1875
A ploughing match held at the Nether Hilton, Glass granted by Mr Peter Green.  Twenty five ploughs started in a sharp frost.  Winners;- Ploughing;- 1. Alex. Innes, Old Manse; 2 James Craigen, Glenshee: 3 James Smith, Mains of Aswanly; 4 Thomas Duff, Hillockhead; 5 James Castles, Glenshee: 6 Alex. Dey, Midton; 7 James Stewart, Invermarkie; 8 James Wilkie, Netherton; 9 James McIntosh, Mains of Aswanly; 10 Thomas Strachan, Netherton; 11 J. Jamieson, Graystone; 12 Robert Ramsay, Braeton; 13 George Strachan, Netherton; 14 Alex. Gauld, Edinglassie

Boys Ploughing winners;- 1 John Mitchell, Picktillum; 2 John Smith, Glenmarkie; 3 George Stewart, Edinglassie; 4 John Fraser, Greystonefaulds

Best kept harness;- 1 John McIntosh, Mains of Aswanly; 2 George Craig, Lettoch; 3 James Stewart, Invermarkie; 4 James Wilkie, Netherton; 5 John Smith, Glenmarkie; 6 Peter Green, Nether Hilton; 7 Thomas Strachan, Netherton; 8 James Bremner, Waterside

Mr and Mrs Green supplied all the competitors with an abundance of refreshments and in the evening forty gentlemen partook of an excellent dinner at the Old Manse Inn.  Mr Robertson, Inspector of Poor occupied the chair supported on the right by the judges and Mr McPherson, miller and on the left by William Gordon, Upper Hilton and Mr Dey, Midton.  Mr Alex. Smith, Mains of Aswanly acted as croupier supported by Mr Gauld, Heatheryfold and Mr Robertson, Graystone and a most harmonious and agreeable evening was spent.  The ploughmen held a ball at the Nether Hilton during the evening.

8 January 1876
On 31 December 1875 a ploughing match was held at Glenmarkie, Glass by Mr Ross and Miss Ross, who afterwards provided a substantial dinner.  The main winners were;-

1.       W. Smart, Braeton; 2 Alex Gordon, Oldyne; 3 John Smith, Glenmarkie; 12 Alex Horn, Easter, Bodylair

12 February 1876
The cart track from Edinglassie to the Chapelhill  and the moss has been long a cause of great complaint.  In a wet season the dried peats could not be brought from the moss and deprived people of fuel.  A meeting was held in the Public School last week when it was resolved to collect money to improve the road.  A committee consisting of James Stephen, Chapelhill, Mr Gauld, Heatheryfold; Robertson, Barefolds; Bennett, Parkhall and Robertson, Graystone was formed.  In a few days £54.3s had been collected while the Earl of Fife’s Factor gave £50 but more is needed before work can commence on a new road

18 March 1876
Death of William Cameron, Glass age 81 years.  As a young man he came to the Cabrach to work at his trade of shoemaker and ultimately started on his own account.  He carried on a pretty good business at Eastertown for some time and then shifted to Ardgally in Glass where he remained till four years ago when he came to the Poors-House at the Market Hill.  His mode of living was peculiar – he never kept a housekeeper or female attendant, but lived by himself and till very lately, he did not indulge but in one diet a day.  He was very contented and cheerful and latterly at least, was very fond of company.  He died last Sunday. (Note the Poors-House in question became the wash-house of the Market Inn and was used as a stone)

22 April 1876
Glass School Board.  Polling took place in the Public School of Glass for nominations to sit on the School Board

1.       Malcolm Stewart, Factor for the Earl of Fife  85 Votes

2.       William Gordon, Upper Hilton (1815-1879)  71 Votes

3.       Alex. Smart, Mains of Beldorney  48 Votes

4.       Alex. Smith, Mains of Aswanly (1852- 1915)  40 Votes

5.       Alex Watt, Butterwards  39 Votes

6.       William Wans, Belnaboth  32 Votes

7.       Rev Dr Duguid, Established Minister of Glass  31 Votes

8.       George Gordon, Tullochallam  25 Votes

9.       John Archibald, Succoth  17 Votes

The first five were elected to the Board.

29 April 1876
Edinglassie Farm, Glass let to John Duncan of the Corrie

20 May 1876
Death of Admiral Charles Gordon age 78.  On 28 December last year while reading the papers in the Gordon Arms Hotel in Huntly he was seized with a shock of paralysis.  He was carried home to his house “Glenburn” in Castle Street, Huntly and had never been out of his room since that time.

The will of Admiral Charles Gordon was given as £15,070.12s7d.

3 June 1876
New road from Edinglassie to the Chapelhill.  The committee have received subscriptions to the amount of £111.9s. and they expect some further subscriptions.  The soft road through the moss is to be put in proper order first and then the workmen will commence near Edinglassie and make it on towards the Chapelhill.  An advert in the Huntly Express asked contractors to apply.

17 June 1876
A serious fire at the Midtown, Glass when the threshing mill and the mill-house were destroyed.  If the wind had not been pretty calm and the roofs of the dwelling-house and byres covered with wet blankets nothing could have saved the complete premises.  The fire was discovered about 11pm by a smell of fire and smoke in the dwelling-house, the threshing mill being only four feet from the gable of the house.

22 July 1876
Alex. Ogilvie Stephenson the new owner of the Daugh of Cairnborrow in Glass was entertained by the tenantry to a dinner which took place in the mill loft at Parkhall which was tastefully decorated by Mr Bennett and Mr Fletcher, gamekeeper, Glenmarkie.  With Mr Wans, Belnaboth in the chair a company of about 60 shook hands with Mr Stephenson.  Mr Robertson, Barefolds was croupier.  Mr Wilson, Old Manse was one of the oldest tenants on the estate.  Among many toasts James Smith, Aswanly gave “The Good Wives of Cairnborrow”

29 July 1876
Messrs Webber & Archibald from London have held evening meetings in Glass Public School this week at which splendid views of foreign lands and Bible scenes were shown during the addresses.

14 October 1876
James Smith, Goshen, Glass pled guilty to being on the Duke of Richmond and Gordon’s estate pursuing game.  He was seen in the company of a guest of Beldorney Castle on the farm land of Currydown, Gartly which marches with Beldorney.  Fined £1.

11 November 1876
At a meeting in the public School Mr Alex Smith, Mains of Aswanly was re-elected as a Road Trustee.  He is the only eligible in the Aberdeenshire part of Glass.

11 November 1876
About two years ago there was a general wish to have the churchyard of Glass put in decent order.  In October 1875 at a public meeting presided over by Rev Dr Duguid, it was resolved to proceed with the work.  A new stair was erected and the dyke round the churchyard was rebuilt with coping stones put on top.  One thing that the committee were most anxious about was that the flat tombstones should be places upright. NOTE this most excellent idea was never carried out and during or soon after the Second World War the County Council in their wisdom decided to lay the old “table” stones flat on the ground where inevitably the constant trampling of feet has worn the inscriptions into illegibility.

9 December 1876
A concert to raise funds for the Public School was held at Invermarkie

30 December 1876
Mr Robert Fraser interim teacher at Beldorney School received a presentation for his exceptionally good work at the school.

6 January 1877
At a meeting of the Glass Parochial Board on Tuesday the assessment for the current year was fixed as follows.  Poor rate 9 1/2d.  School rate 5d.  Registration 1/4d or ½ 3/4d on Heritors and occupiers each.  The roll of paupers was gone over and the inspector was instructed to discontinue the allowance of two of the paupers or offer them lodging in the Poorhouse.

3 March 1877
In the upper part of Glass – by this is meant Beldorney district – a number of young men have formed a Literary Association.  The first lecture was given at Beldorney School on 23 February.  Mr Jones the schoolmaster of Beldorney School was in the chair.  Rev D.M.Ross of the Established Church of Glass gave a lecture on Sir Walter Scott. The Beldorney Association was very active at this time but in due course Glass formed their own association and they eventually amalgamated.

7 July 1877
Full account of the ancestry of George Macdonald and his uncle James Macdonald at the Farm. Huntly.  Not often realised that James and George and their two families in all 14 children, resided at the Farm in perfect harmony it is said.

15 August 1877
In the year following Mr Alex. Geddes purchase of part of Glass from the Earl of Fife, it was announced that Geddes was to plant the Gallowhill.  This project was much approved as it improved that vare lochlith?? on the road leading from Glass to the Glen of Bellyhack and onwards to Keith.

1 September1877
Last Saturday George Milne, farm servant at the Mains of Drumuir, Botriphnie was apprehended by Sgt. McBeath and Constable Dustan, Glass on charges of assaulting a girl of eleven years of age.

1 September 1877
A treat to the Glass Free Church children at the Manse thence to the Church for a meal.  Rev Mr Macaulay; Mr Jones, Beldorney School; Mr Taylor, Quarryhead; Mr McGregor, Broadbog etc. all Free Kirk Folk.

22 September 1877
The Aberdeenshire part of Glass has been very much infested with tinkers for some time.  On Tuesday they had a perfect field day having fought up and down the country road.  Towards evening they presented a sad spectacle, their visages being very much disfigured and most of them being helplessly drunk.  It is a perfect disgrace for inn-keepers to give them so much drink, besides they are committing a breach of their licence certificates.  NOTE this refers to the road from Huntly to Dufftown and certainly the Market Inn would come under criticism.

3 November 1877
Wedding at Banff of Alex Geddes of Glass (the Laird) and Fanny Sharpe daughter of the late Dr Sharpe, Cullen.  Great celebrations in Glass

16 February 1878
An amateur concert was held in Glass Public School.  In part of a very full programme solos in song were by Miss Smith, Aswanly; Miss Innes, Old Manse; and Miss B. Duff, Parkhaugh, a promising young singer of nine years.  Viola and violincello by Messrs Morrison, Ramsay and Harper.  Bagpipes played by Cumming Duff, Parkhaugh.  Flageolet by A. Duff, Netherton.

2 March 1878
A ploughing match at Gowanston.  The judges, Alex Robertson, Graystone and Alex Innes, Old Manse had no difficulty in deciding the winners  1^st William Robertson, Bonfail and 2^nd Alex. Smith, Mains of Aswanly

6 July 1878
New house being built on the Battlehill for John Porter, Post Master of Huntly.  He had a large grocers business on the Square where Howiesons stood; he eventually bought the small estate of Corryhaugh in Rothiemay.

8 August 1878
An interesting piece by an older contributor to the paper; had been visiting Glass Market since 1834.

“This year I went to Glass on my annual holiday over roads which even “Jeannie” – a most gentle and patient of animals – protested against; roads which to call wretched were to libel the word. Can the new lairds do nothing to mend them?  The road to Zion is said to be hard to travel, if it be as hard as the road to Glass, I am afraid in the case of Zion pilgrims there will be few to find it.  But I got there nevertheless and found myself on the Glass Market Hill, where nowt and sheep and horses were wont to meet in great multitudes.  The glory of the gathering has now gone.  Year by year it has dwindled away and though this season’s fine weather tempted farmers and others, the market received no “fillip” to afford it new life.  Last year there was no lemonade in Glass – at least so I was told at John Gordon’s – there was whisky though.  We tried some – not on the Hill, but at another place.  The girl brought in water to mix it.  We put water in it and it took the spirit out of the whisky.  We then tried some without and we came to the conclusion arrived at by an old Huntly worthy under similar circumstances, that, “the man would be richt ill to please that wisna satisfied wi’ the water that was in it already”

Next day we returned to Glass – there’s something uncanny about the place, it tempts one back – and had some “proper”and spent a royal day lotos-eating by Deveronside.  Capital quarters, where a hearty welcome was backed by hearty fare and where the only  livings things to remind us of the world we had left behind were the ducks who quacked like political candidates on the double stump.  Many thanks, goodwife, many thanks good man!  May your shadow, sir, never grow less and it isn’t a trifle now.  A short walk brought us to the city of the Haugh.  There the “mairchant” I found building a house.  He was taking it easy.  I should say he will have it up by the time I get north again.  He offered us lemonade, with the remark “there IS lemonade in Glass” forgetting that the Haugh is not in Glass at all, but in Mortlach.  There, my good friends, I have thee on the hip.  The “mairchant” says that in the Haugh they have the climate of the Isle of Wight.  Well, it may be so – there is a great deal to be said for the Haugh and not a little for the Isle of Wight.  On the whole, I think I should prefer the latter.  I have an idea that there’s some strong weather brewed up the Mortlach way and that it gets down the  glen in winter”

17 August 1878
Glass Parochial Board met to discuss the resignation of Robert Duncan, the Sanitary Inspector.  After some discussion James Littlejohn, Market Hill was appointed to the post.

21 December 1878
Death of Arthur Stephen, Glass Schoolmaster who died at the schoolhouse around one o’clock on Thursdaylast.  He had been in feeble health for some considerable time.  Born at the Braeton of Glenmarkie in 1806 he got the rudiments of his education from Rev Wm Duguid the Minister of Glass, when he was schoolmaster of Glass.  He entered his duties as schoolmaster in January 1838 and remained till last year when he was succeeded by his younger son.  Mr Stephen was Inspector of Poor for Glass from the beginning of the Poor Law Act till 11 August 1873 when he resigned.  He was also Session Clerk and Registrar and was a most agreeable man having a good fund of humour.

6 February 1879
This winter has seen the largest snow storm in Glass since 1853.  No wheeled vehicle can operate.  All work is by sleigh.  Last week 70 quarters of oats were driven to the Mill of Invermarkie in one day by sleigh.  Our worthy Postman, John Gordon, has kept the merchants and others in necessaries during the storm by taking up a load from Huntly with a sledge every day.  Had it not been for him we would have fared badly.  Labouring people have got nothing done since the first of December.  Those with families have no doubt had stiff work to keep body and soul together with such a protracted storm.

29 March 1879
Glass School Board Election meeting held in the Female School.  Rev D.M. Ross presiding.  Mr Alex. Smith on behalf of the retiring board, gave an outline of the proceedings during the past three years, which was considered satisfactory by the committee.  Mr Smith had been appointed to the Board unanimously at the previous Board meeting in February.

19 April 1879
Outbreak of Diphtheria in Glass.  A boy of ten was buried on Monday and that same night an older brother also died of the malady.

9 August 1879
Fighting at Glass Market.  About a dozen men were charged with rioting at the Market.  Only two came from Glass, Peter McRobbie, Howmill and Charles Gill, stone dyker, Cairnmore.  Apart from Jas. Gray, a shepherd from Ittingstone, Huntly the rest came from the Keith district, notably Douglas Brae, Botriphnie.  All were summoned to appear in Court; several did not appear; the rest were fined.

23 August 1879
Glass School Board.  The local proposal to amalgamate the Female School with the Public School No.1 was objected to by the Inspector of Schools on account of the distance between the schools.  It was resolved that in future infants standard 1 and 2 should be taught at the Female School the rest at the Public School.

23 August 1879
Glass picnic at Beldorney School

20 September 1879
The Morayshire Election had much interest in Glass.  As to the result the people of Glass with the exception of two or three are thoroughly Liberal in their principles and their sympathy was all for the Baronet of Ballindalloch.  The result was as follows  Sir George McPherson Grant; Liberal 959: Brodie of Brodie, Conservative 701:  Majority 258

1 November 1879
Robert Stronach, brother in law of Mr Taylor, Gouls was found drowned in the mill lade about six in the morning on Saturday last.  He was age 53 and the youngest son of George Stronach, farmer, Townhead.

6 December 1879
Severe snowstorm in Glass; snow 10 inches deep in places; farm work much in arrears.

3 January 1880
Glass School Board.  A letter from the Education Department seeking information regarding the proposed transfer of the Female School from the Kirk Session to the Board.  It was proposed to accept the school on the conditions proposed by the Kirk Session.

6 March 1880
Glass ploughing match held at the Glebe.  The winners were; 1 Alex Dey, Midton; 2 Wm Duff, Hillockhead; 3 Wm Robertson, Bonfail: 4 Alex Bonnyman, Invermarkie; 5 Alex Robertson, Graystone; 6 Alex Mitchell, Picktillum; 7 John Robertson, Nether Hilton; 8 Peter Grant, Graystone: 9 Alex Smith, Mains of Aswanley: 10 James Robertson, Barefolds; 11 Wm Archibald, Succoth; 12 Peter Robertson, Nether Hilton; 13 Alex Gray, Waterside

10 April 1880
While George Robertson, Ministers man to Rev Dr Duguid for many years and latterly to Rev Mr Ross, was assisting at the cutting of a colt at Edinglassie when the animal gave him a severe blow on the breast with its head.  At first he and those with him, thought there was no great danger and he walked to Invermarkie, where he was employed.  He was put to bed and given brandy but got worse and died within ten minutes.

5 June 1880
Alex Fletcher, Glenmarkie Lodge, Glass has acquired the lease of Howmill, in the upper region of Glass on the Fife Estate.  The place is most romantically situated on the banks of the Deveron, the opposite side from Beldorney, but has been what may be termed a “wreck” for years.  Under the management of Mr Fletcher we venture to predict it will not remain long in its present dilapidated condition NOTE Mr Fletcher 1839-1912 was gamekeeper on the Glenmarkie Estate.

19 June 1880
Mr and Mrs Geddes of Blairmore arrived at Invermarkie on Wednesday from Chicago

3 July 1880
Death of James Wilson, Old Manse, Glass; died at the Old Manse on Thursday.  Deceased who had attained the allotted span and ten years more was understood to be the oldest publican and to have been the longest period in business of any of the line between Aberdeen and Inverness.  Mr Wilson had a tent in the Market Stance, Huntly and up to a few years ago was a regular attendant at our cattle market.  We suppose he had been professionally on the Glass Market Hill for at least half a century (say 1830) and on occasions when Glass Markets were quite different affairs – in more ways than one – than they are now.

17 July 1880
The public road from Huntly to Glass – never good – is at present in many parts of the upland parish exceedingly rough, in consequence of much of the soft material being washed away by recent rains.  No wonder some Glass folk are saying “We wish we had a Smith of Turtory here!.  The” Slough of Despond” from the bridge at the Haugh to Waterside is at last to be improved, as also the “Stay Brae”, steep enough in all conscience, leading from Waterside to the junction with the main road at Boghead.  The road about to be repaired is the “Kirk” or Parochial road not under control of the Road Trustees.

31 July 1880
Glass Market has come and gone.  It is now but a small affair in comparison with its former greatness and we would be none surprised although it died out altogether.  There was not more sheep on the hill last Tuesday than what you often see in the Huntly or Dufftown cattle markets.  In our younger days we have seen the hill covered with large flocks from great distances.  There was one improvement we observed this year among the whisky tents.   In addition to a temperance tent, there were several tents where a table was set apart for tea and coffee and we believe many availed themselves of this – a cheap and healthy refreshment.  We saw little of excess, especially considering that the heavy rain of Wednesday drove many to the tents for shelter; and there was none of the famous pitch battles which were once an established usage in Glass Market.  In our young day we recollect, on one occasion, to have seen seven great fights going on at one time on the hill.  There were only 500 sheep, a fair turnout of cattle and several horses besides the usual side shows; shooting galleries; cheap johns; piping etc.

28 August 1880
Glass Young Men’s Annual Picnic and Games.  This took place in a beautiful Haugh on a bank of the Deveron given by Mr Duncan, Edinglassie.  At one o’clock most of the young men with a sprinkling of young women met at the Publix School and marched from there to the field of the games.  At a little after two o’clock the whole company was comfortably seated on a fine green slope near the quick flowing Deveron where refreshments were liberally supplied to all.  At three o’clockdancing was commenced and it was kept up with considerable spirit during most of the afternoon.  The games commenced at 3.30 and lasted till 9 pm  Hammer throwing; putting the ball; vaulting; running; etc etc  A list of winners too long to list. Ladies races only; 1^st Division 1 Mary Bonnyman, Blackbog; 2 Mary Gartly, Auchenhandock; 3 Jessie Dow, Chapelhill;  Second Division 1 Jessie Smart, Mains of Beldorney; 2 Mary Gauld, Glenbeg; 3 Ann McBey, Blackbog.   There was an interval at 5 o’clock when tea and cakes were served and at a little past 9 pm the whole bent their steps homeward, well pleased with their day’s entertainment.

18 September 1880
Mr and Mrs Geddes have left Invermarkie for Chicago

2 October 1880
A great Ball at Invermarkie to celebrate the opening of the new steading here.  The bell tolled for the first time

4 December 1880
Glass School Board accept the Female School from the Kirk Session

8 January 1881
The carrying away of the bridge at Cairnford has been a great inconvenience to a large district of the country.  We would suggest that an effort should be made to get a bridge of stone or concrete, whichever would be the cheapest, one to allow carts and other vehicles to pass.  Since 1829 when the stone bridge was carried away by the floods, how many valuable lives have been lost in fording the river at that place.  We never knew anything stick if the public unanimously put their shoulders to the wheel.  We think that committees should be appointed in each district to take up the matter and ascertain what could be done.  We do not know any place where there is such necessity for a bridge.

15 January 1881
A harmonium was purchased and used for the first time in Glass Church.  It was under the manipulation of Mr Stephen, Schoolhouse.

9 April 1881
Death of John Robertson, retired farmer, Wester Boghead aged 82.  Mr Robertson married in 1826 Margaret Craig of the Lettoch, who survives him and settled in the farm of Glenmarkie where he was overseer for 32 years.  Seventeen Years ago (say in 1864) he leased the farm of Wester Boghead.  In his latter years he was to be seen taking a walk round the sunny knoll where Boghead is situated with hiss Bible under his arm where he would sit and read along and by its guidance and direction he rested for support and comfort in his closing days on earth.  He had fourteen of a family and 42 grandchildren.

16 April 1881
Death of John Robson, Plylands.  Free Church Elder.

21 May 1881
An adder caught at Dumeath.  A boy hit it with a stone when it raised itself in the shape of a corkscrew and gave a kind of whistle.  It was soon dispatched and measured 2@ 3” long.  Mr Duncan gave it to Mr Edwards, Banff for the museum.

11 June 1881
The party referred to in paragraph we copy from the “Northern Chronicle” must surely be a native of a neighbouring parish – who ever heard of a Gauld anywhere but in Glass or having his origin in that upland but hospitable parish.  “Death of Alexander Gauld; died at Bellandrum, had been 50 years at Bellandrum aged 89 years”

11 June 1881
The road between Huntly and the Market Hill of Glass.  Do not attempt to run your machine a little above Cairnborrow nor opposite Parkhall.  The very attempt would give the internals such a shaking as would make them remember it in time to come.  We do not know how the Road Trustees travel between Glass Market Hill and Huntly but they can hardly be unaware of the discomfort.

2 July 1881
Mr Geddes has bought from Mr Stephenson of Cairnborrow the farms of Wester Boghead; Waterside; Old Manse; Balnacraig; Barefolds and part of Westfolds.

16 July 1881
A Huntly man carting wood from Straitinnan plantation Glass fell from his cart when crossing Deveron near Tam’s Pot (near Aswanly) and broke his legs.  He was taken to Huntly by a carriage belonging to Rev D.M. Ross of Glass Church

23 July 1881
The oldest person in Glass at present is Mrs Duff, Midton, widow of Alex Duff.  She is 95 and still fit.  We saw her in Huntly a few years ago walking to and from Church.

13 August 1881  Aberdeen Sheriff Court.  James Fyfe, labourer, Aswanly, Glass charged with on Glass Market Hill struck a farmer’s son on the face.  He had one previous conviction.  Fined £1 or 14 days in jail.

20 August 1881
The site of the new mansion house for Mr Geddes has been settled during his recent sojourn in Glass.  It will be on high ground; one field will be taken from the farm of Waterside and another from the Torry.  Mr Geddes left Glass on Tuesday to return to Chicago.

4 September 1881
Death by accident of John Winks at Botriphnie.  He was employed by Rev Dr Duguid for a time.

17 December 1881
Labourers in Glass are in no want of employment.  A number of men have been putting up fences and preparing plantations on what will be the policies of Blairmore House.  For some days they have been busy clearing the foundations for stables, coach-houses etc.

18 February 1882
Died at Braeton, Parish of Mortlach on 17 inst. James Bonnyman, formerly farmer in Blackbog, Glass in his 88^thyear

18 March 1882
Glass School Board.  A numerous meeting of ratepayers was held in the Central School on Monday for the purpose of hearing from the retiring Board an account of their three years in office.  Rev D.M. Ross was in the chair and it was agreed to re-elect the present Board.

15 April 1882
Glass School Board voting  Rev D.M.Ross 97: Mr Bennett, Parkhall 93: Rev D. Macaulay, Free Church 91: Mr Smart, Mains of Beldorney 87: Mr A. Smith, Mains of Aswanly 75: Mr Robertson, Barefolds 47

The first five members formed the new Board

15 April 1882
Death at the Market Hill of James Gordon, tailor age 70

29 April 1882
An alteration in the system of delivery of parcel post.  As far as this district is concerned our country messengers are all in readiness for the new arrangements.  The whole of our rural letter carriers, save one, are provided with horses and licensed traps.  There are no less than four of them; Gordon of Glass leads of —–the only one who trudges along on shanks mare is the three times a week one to Glens of Foudland

27 May 1882
Lists opened for subscriptions for a new bridge over the Deveron at Cairnford

27 May 1882
The road to Glass.  Visitors this year will see a vast improvement.  Even opposite Parkhall and on to Easter Boghead – always the worst part – has been greatly improved.  The cutting of the turf on either side is a pleasing feature.  The road to Glass has always been proverbial in everyone’s mouth.

27 May 1882
Long account of a Glass School Board Meeting in the public School.  Among those present were Rev D.M. Ross, Chairman: Messrs Smart, Mains of Beldorney: Bennett, Parkhall: Smith, Mains of Aswanly.  At one time so many voices were speaking at the same time that it was impossible to catch what they were saying. The Officer: “I deliver every message I am ordered to deliver”

The Chairman: I know of one instance when the message had not been delivered
The Officer: “Well then it was Mr Smith there who was to blame for that”
Mr Smith: – But you had orders from the Board and should not have acted on my dictation
The Officer: “I thought I was surely doing right when I was obeying the instructions of a member of the Board” (laughter)

3 June 1882
Meeting of the Huntly Road Trustees.  Proposed to build a new bridge at Cairnford at a cost of between £500 and £600.  Mr Smith, Mains of Aswanly would give notice in the June Meeting when they would have some idea of how much money could be raised from the district.

3 June 1882
Long account of a previous meeting of Glass Ratepayers held in Beldorney School.  A somewhat acrimonious affair we believe.

Mr Smith Asswanly: – “Are you all satisfied that the rates are low enough”
Mr Duncan: – “We have never complained”
Mr Smith:- “One of your deputation complained to me and said if I was returned again that I must do something to lower the rates.  That party was Mr Gartly, Wrightston”
Mr Gartly: – “I never said anything of the kind. It was the fees I spoke about, not the rates”
”Mr Smith: – “It was the rates”
Mr Gartly: – “I deny that altogether”
Mr Smith:- “It was the rates you said to me most decidedly.  I remember quite well, for it was at the end of my own land that you spoke to me as you were returning from the market”
Mr Gartly:- “It was the fees I spoke to you about.  I never mentioned the rates at all”

17 June 1882
A long letter to the editor from Rev. D. Macaulay of Glass Free Church on the rates question.

1 July 1882
On Sunday last a little boy of about six years, son of Mr Robertson, Bonfail, while climbing on a bar of a paling fell off and fractured one of his arms near to the elbow joint.  He was carried to Dufftown and is being attended to by Dr Innes.  We understand the fracture is very serious.

22 July 1882
Glass Parochial Board Meeting.  Mr James G. Innes, Old Manse, Glass appointed Registrar for Glass in place of the late Arthur Stephen.  He was the   successful applicant

12 August 1882
Beldorney School picnic – a great occasion held in a field given by Mr Gartly, Wrightston.  A long account.  Outstanding among those present was Mr A. Duff of the Netherton who, as ever, was most willing to assist in amusing the children.  He never seems to tire, becoming more and more the centre of attraction.

19 August 1882
The necessity of a new bridge at Cairnford being emphasised.  It was 53 years since the stone bridge built in 1828 was swept away by the great flood – the “Muckle Spate” of August 1829.  In that time three persons had drowned while fording the river.  The necessity of fording for such a long period had been a great inconvenience for those living in the district.

19 August 1882
Death of Mr George Craig.  Born at Terryhorn in 1824, the farm occupied by his father, Mr Craig went on to become a gardener at Fyvie Castle and still later he went to work in the gardens of Kew Botanic Gardens.  After retiring he lived at Terryhorn with his sister and brother in law; he was unmarried

2 September 1882
Mr George Birnie MA appointed headmaster of Glass Central School in place of Mr Stephen.

8 September 1882
The Duke of Richmond and Gordon gave £100 towards the building of the Cairnford Bridge.  Though the bridge will on both sides be on Gordon land the amount is small and the Duke will facilitate the other owners, Fife etc. who have much larger connections.

16 September Cairnford Bridge.
The committee consisting of Mr Geddes; Mr Bruce, Broadland; Mr Smith, Aswanly: Mr Gordon, Wellhead: Mr Dempster, Bogforth: Mr Robertson, Graystone: Mr Mitchell, Picktillum: Mr Bonnyman, overseer, Invermarkie met Mr Cunningham of Dundee and examined the plans.  The bridge will take the form of a lattised girder.  There was no mention that it is part of the old Tay Bridge which had been blown down during a storm the previous winter just as a train was cross it. (This was of course what was to become known locally and perhaps for miles around as the “Red Brig)

10  October 1882
While workmen were digging near the site of Blairmore, Glass, they came on an ancient grave about seven feet below the surface.  It was built of stone and covered with a flat one, 3 feet 3 inches in length and 23 inches in breadth.  The bones were in a good  state of preservation, even the teeth in the skull being entire with the exception of one missing.  There was also an urn quite complete, a beautiful piece of workmanship.  We understand the workmen had got some stone clats near the place before, but there was nothing in them except some charred remains.

11 November 1882
The Great North of Scotland Railway Co. have given £10 towards the cost of the Cairnford Bridge and will also transport the materials free of charge.

2 December 1882
At the Court of Session Tiends Court on Monday the Minister of Glass, Rev D.M. Ross, asked for an augmentation of four chalders upon the stipend of seventeen chalders last augmented in 1860.  The rental of Glass was now £4000 against £3000 in 1860.  Glass extended to eight miles by five and had a population of 1061.  The Lords granted an augmentation of three chalders.

9 December 1882
A Glass correspondent commenting on the Minister of Glass seeking an increase in his stipend and his apparent difficulty in receiving fish, among other things at the Manse says “Fish may be daily, except Sunday, at the Manse of Glass in about four hours after being taken from the sea; there being a daily conveyance from Huntly to Glass immediately after the arrival of the North train”

30 December 1882
The work of erecting the Cairnford Bridge has been given to James Abernethy, Aberdeen.  Work will commence when better weather comes.

3 January 1883
Glass ploughing match held at the Glebe by permission of the Minister, Rev D.M. Ross.  The judges were;- Mr Wanes, Belnaboth: Mr Cameron, Terryhorn: Mr Mitchell, Balnacraig.

1 James Bennet, Parkhall and a medal: 2 Alex Mitchell, farmer, Picktillum: 3 William Duff, farmer, Hillockhead; 4 William Robertson, farmer, Boghead; 5 William Robertson, farmer, Bonfail; 6 Peter Fraser, farmer, Greystonefaulds: 7 George Bremner, Cairnmore; 8 Alex Bonnyman, overseer, Blairmore; 9 Alex Dey, farmer, Midton; 10 John Robertson, farmer, Nether Hilton; 11 Alex Robertson, farmer Graystone; 12 Alex Smith, farmer, Mains of Aswanly; 13 Alex Craig, farmer, Lettoch.

For being the oldest man with the largest family, Alex Mitchell, Picktillum, received from Brander Bros. Huntly, a tea caddy.  The medal winner had to contribute a boll of meal to the poor of the Parish of Glass.

10 February 1883
The Glass correspondent writes; – We are very glad to learn that Mr Richard Jones, who was formerly teacher in the Beldorney Public School, has been appointed Head Master of the Boys and Girls Hospital , Aberdeen at a salary of £200 per annum with free house etc.  The appointment was unanimous and it is the more gratifying considering the manner that he was dealt with here, and we have no doubt but he will now be willing to accord the School Board of Glass a special vote of thanks for their wise policy. (the word Wise was in italics)

10 February 1883
The Huntly Express reporter writes; We learned, incidentally, last week, that Mr Richard Jones who a few months ago was so unceremoniously kicked out of Beldorney School has received another appointment – but we failed to receive any particulars there anent.  We now learn that Mr Jones has obtained a much more lucrative appointment in the receiving the Headmastership of the Boys and Girls Hospital, in King Street Aberdeen at £200 per annum with free house.  The School Board of Glass have therefore in dismissing Mr Jones done him a good turn, but whether they have benefited themselves and the inhabitants of the Beldorney district is another question.

7 July 1883
Glass Annual Games and Picnic held in a field at Dumeath given by Mr Robert Archibald.  The only thing to be regretted was that fewer of the Glass ladies graced the meeting with their presence this year than usual.  Perhaps the fault lies with the young gentlemen, who seem more interested in the games than the ladies.  Very long list of winners at hammer throwing, throwing the heavy ball, running etc.  Piping music by that notable piper Mr Cumming Duff of Parkhaugh.

21 July 1883
Elders of Glass Established Church.  John Simon, Torry; Alex Robertson, Graystone; Wm Wans, Drumduan; and John Taylor, Gouls

22 September 1883
Cairnford Bridge nearly completed; will be ready for traffic in a few weeks.

8 December 1883
Mr James Young, Chief Clerk  of the Criminal Investigation Department of the Edinburgh Police has been presented with a massive gold albert on retiring from the Police to fill a reporting situation with the Edinburgh Evening News.  Mr Young is a Glass “loon” educated at Glass Public School.  About six years ago (1877) he joined the Ayrshire Police as a constable.  Being possessed of more than usual ability he was transferred as clerk in the Chief Constables office; two years ago he transferred to Edinburgh.  He has already displayed a considerable literary ability and has published articles in Chambers Journal and other periodicals.

8 December 1883
Charles Stuart, a shepherd, was charged with stealing a ewe lamb on 6 December from the public road at a part near the Market Inn, Glass, belonging to Mr Craig, Lettoch.  He pled not guilty.  After trial he was found not Proven.

12 January 1884  Cairnford Bridge.
The completion of this bridge has been anxiously looked forward to for some time past.  We understand that the principal cause of the delay arose from the fact that the funds at the disposal of the Committee had got exhausted and the formation of the road on either side of the bridge has had to be deferred until the farmers in the district found it convenient to give voluntary labour of their men and horses.  The needed assistance has now been given and on Wednesday 9 January 1884 we saw several carts and one machine go across the bridge conveniently enough, the only difficulty being the rough approach from the Huntly side, but ere this we expect the boulders will be sufficiently blinded.

1 March 1884
Died at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary on Saturday 23 February James Gauld, farmer, Little Hillockhead, Glass age 72 years

5 April 1884
Alex Stephen died in Ontario. With his friend Alex Wilson, Pugwash, a native of the Haughs of Glass, he paid a visit to Huntly in 1876 or 1877.

28 June 1884
Celebration of the majority of W.J. Grant of Beldorney.

2 August 1884
At the Glass Market on Wednesday 30 March, Lobban, Haugh of Aswanley sold a work oxen for £24.10

20 September 1884
Miss Helen Fasken, Bowiehillock, Fyvie has been appointed teacher at the Female School at the Manse of Glass and starts at the end of the harvest vacation.

27 September 1884
During excavations at the west end of Glass Church for the erection of a vestry, underneath which it is intended to have an apparatus for heating the church, an extraordinary occurrence took place.  During the digging operations the workmen came on the grave of a man named Cameron who lived at Ardgally, and who had been buried only six years before.  Parts of another body were also found and they were said to be that of a man named Davidson who was identified by the colour of his whiskers.  Six skeletons were also found and from Friday to Tuesday, 19-23 September, the whole were huddled together partly covered up but emitting a stench which was most offensive to those living nearby.  When visiting the spot on Wednesday 24 September the bodies and skeletons were all out of sight, the Factor had been informed and all work ceased at the spot, another plan will have to be resolved upon.

4 October 1884
The site of the proposed vestry is now altered.  Had the architect planned it at first where it is now to be, it would not have infringed on the busying ground, none of the coffins would have been exposed and there would have been no cause for complaint.

15 November 1884
Exhibition in Nova Scotia.  In Cumberland County, Nova Scotia Alex Wilson of Pugwash originally from the Haugh of Glass who now occupies the honourable position of Warden of the County, exhibited a pair of carriage horses which won great attention.

22 November 1884
At Parkhaugh, Glass on 15 November Cumming Duff age 88 years. (Grandfather of Cumming Duff of Nether Hilton).  He had been tenant of the small farm of Parkhaugh for over 60 years.  His career was a worthy example of what may be accomplished by industry and economy, even in a small holding.  The acreage of Parkhaugh and Craigour combined does not exceed 60 acres and both were managed by one pair of horses and notwithstanding the small tenancy Mr Duff managed to put three sons into different farms, and we doubt not he has also left behind him a considerable balance at his bankers.  A career such as that of Mr Duff (whose holdings are on the Fife Estates) gives no countenance to the outcry about agricultural depression which is now so persistently proclaimed.

22 November 1884
Huntly Field Club.  BELNABOTH, GLASS means the village of the shielings, the turf huts in which the shepherd resides in summer while they pastured their beasts on the hills.

13 December 1884
The Free Church Presbytery of Aberdeen has denounced dancing and drinking as did the Free Church of Glass.  Quote from a poem on the Aberdeen Free Presbytery

“These men object to the springs and flings
Wherein is danger hidden
The Highland Reel, with circling rings
Is heinous and forbidden
No longer lad and lass may meet
Exchanging ardent glances
Nor know the joy of rhyming feet
In pleasant country dances”

Ascribed the above to Macaulay the Free Kirk Minister and to Rev Mr Ross and the Established Church the following

“The joys of life are far too scant
And though the young grow frisky
Quadrilles are better far than cant
And Burns may speak for whisky”

20 December 1884
A soldiers widowed mothers lament.  The following verses are the production of a young soldier presently in Egypt who, but a few short years ago, was a herd laddie in Glass

Mother’s Lament

“And now he has gone my only boy
So loving and dear to me
The hope and stay of my waning day
I never again will see
In the sanguine tide his heart blood dyed
The sword of a Sudanee

So merry and gay when he sailed away
With Grahame and his Highland men
To protect our laws in a foreign cause
On the scorching Soudan plain
Where the bullets fly through a burning sky
And the eagles tear the slain

But the bravest heart is laid at rest
And a British hero lies
By the Soudan coil of the wending Nile
Where the wild hyena cries
They buried him there with parental care
And a soldier’s obsequies.

He fell in the time of his manly prime
When his heart was all aglow
And who will care for my hoary hair
And my days of earthly woe?
For his father bore the wars of yore
But he reeled beneath the blow

On an Indian dart that pierced his heart
Where the Lucknow medal shone
And my only joy, the father and boy
To a soldiers grave are gone
Oh’ they have fled to join the dead
And then left me to mourn along”

TAMANI, SOUDAN

13 March 1884 The Black Watch distinguished themselves here.  General Gordon being besieged at Khartoum and Baker Pasha defeated by Osman Digna, the expedition sent under General Graham ended in the utter rout of the rebels.

1^st January 1885
No sign of depression in Glass.  The rents of the Blairmore Estate were collected at the Old Manse on Thursday29^th by Mr Thomson the factor who announced at the close that every tenant had settled in full.

14 February 1885
Glass ploughing match which had been postponed from time to time on account of frost and snow came off lastTuesday 10 February on the farm of Invermarkie belonging to Alex Geddes.  The number of ploughs was 29 but had it not been that a coating of snow fell on the night before and that those in the district back from the waterside, where the snow was heavier, were doubtful if the match could take place there would have been a greater turnout.  The field was clear of frost but the soil being pretty hard tried the mettle of the ploughmen, yet the work was well executed and the ground well turned up for a crop.  The turnout of horses and harness with a proper display of bunting was well worth seeing.

1^st Alex Day, Midtown

6^th Wm Ferguson, Edinglassie

7^th Geo. Smith, Aswanley

Geddes gave a silver medal besides a handsome sum of money for prizes.  Other Glass merchants gave prizes.  After the event the committee and judges were entertained to a sumptuous meal at the Old Manse Inn.

7 March 1885
Mr and Mrs Fletcher recently of Glenmarkie Lodge Glass have been installed at Glenbucket Lodge in the management of the estate for the Proprietor Henry Burra, Esq., The new tenant of Glenmarkie shootings is Mr Cook who was tenant for several years before and Wm. Archibald son in law of Mr Fletcher succeeds him as principal gamekeeper.

18 April 1885
The lapwing our feathered friend has again made his appearance in our midst proclaiming the advent of Spring.  Merciless robbers are on the trail waiting with malignant satisfaction the preparations these defenceless creatures are making for the deposition of their eggs.  The destruction of these birds’ nests is a crying shame to the inhabitants of our rural districts.  Their wailing cry ought to serve as warning note to those intent on robbing their nests of their contents.  We trust that the year 1885 will see less of the practice and in the year to come it may cease altogether.

18 April 1885
Glass School Board.  The election of the School Board for Glass took place in the Central School on Thursday 16 April.  There were 6 candidates for the 5 seats and much interest was taken in the proceedings.  It is doubtful whether in any other parish in Scotland so large a proportion of the voters made their appearance at the polling booth.  Of the possible 97 no less than 95 recorded their vote – only 2 not having put in an appearance.  The contest was unquestionably one between the Established Church and the Free Church.  Three gentlemen were nominated for both parties, one of the Free Church candidates being a member of the United Presbyterian Church.  The Established Church party are the most numerous in the parish and have always had a majority on the Board.  Of late years however, some of their proceedings – notably the granting of the Public School for promiscuous dancing assemblies – have given offence to many parties belonging to the Established Church it is an open secret that a few of those voted, and actually worked in the interests of the Free Church candidates.  But the contest resulted in a triumph for the DANCES, the three Established Church gentlemen, Rev Mr Ross, Mr Smith, Aswanly and Mr Bennet, Parkhall, all of whom are members of the former Board, being at the top of the Poll.  The result was announced at 4.45pm in the presence of a large number of ratepayers who were waiting anxiously to learn the state of the Poll, but there was no manifestation of enthusiasm or disappointment and the bulk of those present shortly afterwards wended their way homewards.

Rev Mr Ross  102 votes: Mr Smith, Aswanly 97 votes: Mr Bennet, Parkhall 78 votes: Mr Robertson, Belnaboth 77 votes: Mr Robertson, Barefolds 67 votes: Mr Taylor, Back o’ Hill 49 votes.

Both Robertson’s are new members to the Board.

25 April 1885
Late Mr James Slorach.  Some will doubtless heave a sigh on learning that old James Slorach for many years a mole catcher in this district and for 23 years a resident on the Binn Hill has died in a foreign land.  Jas. Slorach although much under the middle size was always a man of pluck and courage.  50 years ago (in 1835) he was Minister’s man at the Manse of Glass when the incumbent Rev John Cruickshank kept the largest pair of horses in the parish.  While taking his team to the smithy James looked like a dwarf alongside his huge charges.  Some 8 or 9 years ago when he was 78 or 79 he emigrated to Canada where he spent the evening of his life with one of his sons.  He died at Scotia Post Office, Canada 1 April 1885 aged 87 years.

27 July 1885
Huntly Road Trustees Meeting.  Alex Smith, Aswanly said Cairnford Bridge was 120 feet span and 16 feet of roadway from plans and specifications of Mr Cunningham CF of Dundee.

25 July 1885
Elizabeth Hall legacy was dated 28 May 1814 and provided two bursaries of £4 each for natives of Glass.  The presentation lay with the Kirk Session who chose the recipients on the recommendation of the Head Master who submitted a list of boys likely to go forward to the University.

1 August 1885  Glass Market sale of sheep on Tuesday about 1100 sheep on the stance, trade stiff.  2 ewes @ £2.2 each, 2 lambs same price.  Wednesday saw a fair turnout of cattle but trade dull.

2 stots @ £44.10

2 Queys @ £34.00

1 cow @ £17.00#1 Stirk @ £10.00

The horse market saw a great turnout but little demand.  Harvest feeing was 15/- less than earlier markets.

22 August 1885
James Morrison, Chapelhill, Glass is to drive a parcel and passenger cart on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays to and from GLASS AND HUNTLY.  Moderate fares will be charged.  The cart will leave the Chapelhill at 7  am each morning and pass Glenmarkie Lodge and Manse of Glass about 9 am and the Square of Huntly for return journey at 3 pm.

5 September 1885
School outing from Glass to the Castle Park, Huntly.  About 30 carts with some 200 children led by pipers John Donald, Corsemaul and Cumming Duff, Parkhaugh on the foremost carts.  Many of the carts especially those of Lettoch, Parkhall, Netherton of Glenmarkie were beautifully decorated with flowers and heather while on all flags were flying.  At the Castle Park there were Aunt Sallys etc.  Duff of Netherton and Ramsay, Braeton fiddled while Strathspeys were danced, races run.  Mr Birnie, Glass Headmaster was in charge of the outing which left Huntly at 6 pm tired but happy after the days outing.  On Thursday 3 September (the day of the affair) the morning looked gloomy and some were afraid that the trip would have to be postponed but the day began to clear and the procession started off at 9 am.  At this time there were severe frosts on several nights which did great damage to potatoes on low lying ground and some fields of oats appear a bit touched by frost.  This invasion from GLASS was peaceful and nowadays there are no feuds between GLASS and HUNTLY.  But in the early 1800’s it was very different.  Between men of Keith and the GAULDS of GLASS there was in those days many a hard fought battle and if in 1835 such a procession had been seen rounding the Cairds Hill our friends in Keith would have been thinking of buckling on their armour.

3 October 1885
The flail was still being used at this date in the Huntly district among small crofters, but at the same time in the same districts steam threshing mills were on hire to farmers.

In 1885 in the North-East there was no reaping machines or binders.  The flair was the principal implement then being used for threshing and it was the practice for the farm servants to get an hour or two at it before breakfast and a grand job it was in cold weather and of course a first class appetiser.  The only light was the auld black oily cruisie – rashes were used for the wick.

24 October 1885
Fares from Glasgow to New York – cabin £12.2.5.d: 2^nd cabin £6.6.7d.    Steering at reduced rates.

24 October 1885
Huntly Field Club outing to Glass.  Blairmore now almost finished building.  The party came to the new Cairnford Bridge; seen by some for the first time.  Peter Kirk looked lonely a little way down the river, the hills of GLASS and the Cabrach and the Glen of Artloch looked beautiful.  Read the Breviary of Aberdeen for description of Wallakirk and St Wolloch.  The Strathbogie Presbytery Book tells “a solitary pilgrim may sometimes be seen brushing away the dew on a May morning on his way to Wallakirk”  This was in 1844.

21 November 1885
We regret to say that a few young men or boys have lately been going about with their faces blackened annoying people in Glass by throwing turnips at doors, plastering them with filth etc.  One night last week 14 – 20 November a number of them had so ill-used two families (the Wink’s the blacksmith and James Littlejohn, father of Jessie) at the Market Hill that to frighten them off, they had on the spur of the moment fired, one a pistol and the other a gun, with no intention of hurting anyone, but unfortunately some pellets had struck some of the crew about the legs, but we believe none were seriously hurt.  None regrets so much as the parties taught a lesson so that they may occupy their time better at night than be going about molesting decent people.

12 December 1885

Glass School Board met and fixed the assessments for the coming year.

Poor rates ½
Registrations etc. one penny per £1
School rates 5 pence per £1

(One half of proprietors and one half on tenants)

19 December 1885
Mr Blackwood a Temperance worker addressed a fair gathering in the Free Church, Glass on Tuesdayevening.  Rev Mr Macaulay was in the chair.  The attendance was fair considering that the temperance movement is as yet in its infancy in GLASS.

27 February 1886
A meeting of farm servants was held at Gartly and among the resolutions was one that :- “Engagements to be for no fixed periods and that servants receive their wages monthly; and that they be allowed a half holiday once a week except during harvest time”

6 March 1886
On account of the damage done to the crops last season and the bad harvest, the Earl of Fife is to distribute a large quantity of seed oats among his tenants at Glenmarkie and Bellyhack, Glass.  Mr Leslie was the Factor then and most tenants had to ask an abatement of rent.  A petition was signed by all but a few of the tenants.  One of those not signing said scathingly; -“ If ye had a hauden your pleugh as lang as I hae’ deen and travelled to Huntly on your feet as I hae deen when I had business to do, instead of continually driving about the country in machines ye wadna hae needed tae ask your Laird for an abatement of rent.”

6 March 1886
March came in like a lion and there has been considerable drifting since Monday 1 March and in some places roads are blocked with farm work so far behind that no ploughing has been done at all this year.  Farmers are uneasy at the length of the storm.

March 1886
There were many meetings of farm servants at this time all of them anti Tory in speech and sentiment.  One resolution was that farmers be asked to give certificates of character for length of service, that they be allowed a half holiday of 2 hours on Saturday afternoon except at harvest time.  That plough irons be carried to the smithy in the farmers time.  That a stop be put to attending horses at 7 in the evening.  Farm servants had been kept in a state of serfdom up to the present time for the benefit of the so called lords of the soil.  The Tories had no sympathy with the needs and welfare of the working classes.  Farm servants had a 10 hour day at this time and they asked that they be home at 11am and finished by 6 pm.

13 March 1886
A farmer replied to the above by stating that if all demands were granted the farmer would be compelled to retire and allow the servants to occupy the farms.  It is proposed that 8 hours constitute a day’s work for a 5 day week with a half holiday on Saturday, making the working time 15 hours a week shorter which will be one fifth less work done during a year, and this means that the farmer will have to provide one fifth more strength, thus where 4 pairs of horses sufficed, 5 pairs would be necessary, adding £100 per year if we count men’s board and lodging.  As regards accommodation, this should be the landlords responsibility not the farmers.  He averred that many servants had better wages than their masters.  Later at Forgue on 20 MarchRev Jas. Bremner addressing one of the servants meetings asked “how can a man with a wife and 6 of a family feed, clothe and educate them on £20 or £22 a year? This is a mystery to me” he said.

27 March 1886
John Duncan, Mill of Lynebain had a field of oats sown yesterday Friday 26 March.  He must have been one of those who refused the offer of oats from the Earl.

27 March 1886
On Thursday last 25 March the Royal Oak Hotel, Huntly was besieged by a huge contingent of crofters and small farmers from GLASS.  The display of carts was impressive, they were there to collect their bags of seed oats from the Earl of Fife.  By afternoon every bag labelled and addressed was collected; and after refreshments the parties wended their way homewards well pleased with their visit to Huntly.

27 March 1886
Stewarts Hall, Huntly burned down on  Sunday 21 March.  The money to build the hall was gifted by the late Mr A. Stewart, writer, known to many a Huntly loon and evil doer as “The Lairdie”.  The hall was built on property adjoining the house where the Lairdie lived.

27 March 1886
Death at Edinburgh of Rev William Taylor, MA.  He officiated at Glass when the Free Church congregation was formed during the time of the Disruption.  The first election of Elders took place on 17 April 1842 when the four “Johns”

John Strachan – Cairnhead
John Archibald – Succoth
John Gordon – Upper Hilton
John Robson – Plylands

Were elected.  About July 1843 Mr Taylor left Glass and was elected to the Free Church congregation of Pulteneytown, Wick where he laboured for eleven years.  Failing health compelled him to retire in 1854 when he was appointed Editor of the British Messenger, a job he held for several years.

3 April 1886   Mr Grant of Beldorney, Glass has reduced his rents by 10%

10 April 1886   Huntly Crofters Feeding market wages down by £1 or £2 from last year.

1^st Horseman with house and usual perquisites £23. – £24
2^nd Horseman £21 – £22
Cattlemen £22 – £24
Good kitchen women £6 – £7

All are annual payments, not half yearly.

3 July 1886
Death of Wm Wans, Belnaboth, Glass age 75 years.  The Wans have been tenants of Belnaboth since 1660.  He had no family so the name Wans disappears from Glass.  He gave over the tenancy of Belnaboth to his son in law Jas. Robertson.  The Wans were Established Church members but when the New Lichts or Secessionists came to the Cabrach the Wans out of curiosity went to hear them and became attached to them by joining the United Presbyterian Church in Huntly under Rev Mr Cowie.  In 1835 a considerable contingent went from Glass to hear Mr Cowie.  Later Mr Wans joined Glass Free Church Belnaboth was the residence on Sundays for the Ministers of the Free Church sent to preach at the “Timmer Kirk” at Edinglassie.

17 July 1886
Huntly Postmaster authorised the Post Office at the Haugh of Glass to sell Postal Orders for the first time as a convenience.

4 September 1886
Blairmore House Glass nearing completion.  Built of Kemnay granite the carriage of the stones cost £11 –

25 September 1886
Glass School Board met on Thursday evening 23 September to consider the appointment of a Headmaster to the Central School.  A leet of 4 was chosen from 17 applications.  They were 1 Mr J. Davidson MA lately Principal of the High School Naini, India; 2 J. Cormack MA Kirbister Public School, Orkney: 3 W. Davidson, Guischan School: 4 David Wood, Deerness Public School, Orkney

9 October 1886
Glass School Board met on 2 October 1886 and appointed David Wood as Headmaster

9 October 1886
Cairnford Bridge cost £880, the whole of this amount was raised by private subscription among the people in the district and from Landlords.  It was put on the list of County bridges at a meeting in Aberdeen County Buildings when Mr John Wilson, Huntly chairman of Huntly Road Trustees moved a motion to that effect, he was seconded by Alex. Smith, Aswanly.

6 November 1886
In Aberdeen in 1840 there were over 500 well known prostitutes and 72 houses of ill fame.  Today in 1886 there are only 67 prostitutes and no known houses of ill fame.  Female drunkenness in 1880 = 220 women were arrested and in 1886 this had increased to 460 women, while only 132 men were arrested for this offence.  In 1858 hordes of young men could be seen Sunday after Sunday for the purpose of indulging in the questionable amusement of cock fighting, or to see a couple of dogs worry each other.  In 1886 all that is no more.

27 November 1886
The new bridge over the Bogie at Bleachfield Mills is now completed.  It was built by Jas. Abernethy & Co. of Ferryhill, Aberdeen and consists of two latticed girders in place of the old wooden erection.

25 December 1886
Blairmore House officially opened Friday 31 December 1886 Rev D.M. Ross presiding.

8 January 1887
Blairmore Celebrations.  Mr & Mrs Geddes did not leave the ballroom till an early hour.  Mr Geddes can be said to have been the life and soul of the party.

12 February 1887
Agents in Glass for the Express were – W.I. Gordon, Market Road; John Aberdein, The Haugh; Wm. Ingram, carrier and James Morrison, Chapelhill

26 February 1887
Article of NE place names; Gouls; a fork referring to the forks or points of land lying between three burns which reunite before joining the Deveron:  Succoth: a snout, a projecting ;point:  Aswanly: a ravine refers to the gully at the south:  Leddach; or the Leddauch or half dauch:  Glass; grey

23 April 1887
Robert Wilson’s house at the Corsmaul destroyed by fire.

7 May 1887
John Craigen age 87 burned to death in fire at his house at Backtack

25 June 1887
Queen’s Jubilee.  From the top of the Norry Hill no fewer than 35 bonfires could be seen from Troup Head to Bennachie etc.

16 July 1887
Mr & Mrs Williamson have taken up residence at Huntly Lodge.

8 October 1887
Presentation to John Gauld, Police Constable at Stanley, Perthshire, son of the late Alex. Gauld, Edinglassie, Glass.

22 October 1887
On Saturday 15 October the Earl OF Fife  accompanied by his Factor, Mr Leslie, drove from Mortlach through Glass.  A number of the tenants met them near the Market Inn.  His Lordship entered freely into conversation with them, sympathising with them in the hard times they had to encounter.  He then drove off amid cheers along the Keith road.

26 November 1887
Rev Herbert Bell of John Knox (Mounthooly) Church committed suicide by jumping in front of the Inverness to Aberdeen train as it was entering Kittybrewster station.  He was cut to pieces.

3 December 1887
Mrs Geddes of Blairmore provided free hot dinners to Glass School during the winter.

10 December 1887
Fire at Glass Female School.  Miss Fasken called the Policeman who lived in the other part of the building and the fire was soon put out.

10 December 1887
Huntly Prison was underground on the Square opposite Mr McGlashan’s property.  Recently part of the hole was discovered when the monument to Mr Robertson was being erected; a portion 10 feet long was come on and filled in.  The Tolbooth in earlier times.

7 January 1888
In August last Mr Geddes of Blairmore, Glass caused a circular to be sent to all his tenants promising relief, and now he has fulfilled that promise with a 20% reduction in general.

11 January 1888
At Fochabers 10 January Jane, widow of Edward Wagstaffe aged 85, daughter of Rev John Cruickshank, sometime Minister of Glass Est. Church.  Wagstaffe was in the service of 5^th Duke of Gordon before becoming tenant of Westerton.  After a reversal of fortune Mrs Wagstaffe gave up Westerton in 1877.

21 January 1888
On Saturday 14 January the Blairmore tenants met in the school to give thanks to Mr Geddes for his help in these hard times.  Alex. Smith, Aswanly spoke, a deputation then went to Blairmore with a fulsome address.

21 January 1888
Good article on Glass.  Invermarkie comes from mare, a horse;  Glenmarkie means glen of the horses from an old custom of turning out the horses in a district during summer into a glen, or on the side of a hill to share there a privilege of common pasture.  A Glass farmer tells that in his youth c1820 he had seen 60 horses grazing on the Brunhill (Brownhill) to the west of Aswanly, so it is not so long ago that this old custom was kept in Glass.  Dallachy; – means the face of a hill.

3 March 1888
Died at Drumduan, Glass Robert Moir late farmer there age 85

17 March 1888
The Goshen Story

21 April 1888
Death of Alex. Robertson aged 27, 4^th son of Jas. Robertson, farmer, Barefolds, Glass

5 May 1888
Mr Watt, teacher of dancing Glenlivet has just finished a class in Glass.

12 May 1888
Glass School Board appoint Donald McDonald, shoemaker, Market Hill, School Officer.  Alex Smith, Aswanly tendered his resignation for School Board and Mr Grant of Beldorney Castle was appointed in his place.

30 June 1888
Glass scholars trip to Cullen.  All those who had passed the secondary standard left at 6 am in 22 carts “so that they would see the sea” but the day was misty.  Accompanied by J. Donald from the Corsmaul with his bagpipes they returned in the evening.

7 July 1888
At Mains of Aswanly on the 4^th July after a short illness, Mary Gauld widow of James Smith, farmer there.

14 July 1888
The funeral of Mrs Smith, Aswanly.  The funeral of this well-known and much respected lady took place on Saturdayand was very largely attended.  Many parties from other parishes in Strathbogie were present and the funeral cortege was the most numerous that has been seen in Glass for many years.  Interred in the Parish Church Churchyard.

4 August 1888
Estate of Edinglassie bought by John Walker of Dudley son of late Rev. Jas. Walker Minister Huntly.  The Duke of Fife has now no land in Glass.

 4 August 1888
A DAY’S TRIP THROUGH GLASS.   Since the days now more than 50 years ago when good Factor Findlater might be seen at the top of the Glass Market Hill and dozens of farmers and crofters all equally anxious to have a word with Mr Findlater.  In those days (1835) a journey to Banff on “shankums” and occasionally taken to have an interview with the then liberal minded beloved and liberal handed but eccentric James the Earl of Fife.  In Glass new houses are springing up more than in any other parish, the first to attract the attention was the dwelling house and business premises of James Morrison, shoemaker, Market Hill (Road).  On the return journey through Auchindoun and over the Corsmaul, this district we had travelled at least a hundred times some fifty years ago and on our trip last week we observed nothing in the way of changes worth noticing, save the natural wood of Fiddichside has greatly improved the appearance of the stream and its surroundings.  The old Castle of Auchindoun is still to be seen about half a mile from the highway.  Coming in sight of Glass Market Hill there is nothing to be seen on the elevation but the 16 or 17 tents we had noticed in the morning.  In and around the Glass Market Inn there were a number of well-known faces, all merry and jovial enough, but certainly none of them in the state even bordering on intoxication and let us remark en passant that is something very different from what we have seen long ago on the evening of Glass Market.  From our friend “Middies” we had to take a nip of brandy and in an hour afterwards reached the capital of Strathbogie.  We also noticed at the nether Hilton a new dwelling house and new steading.

27 October 1888
Death at 10 Torry Street, Huntly of Jane Douglas, third daughter of the late Peter Douglas, crofter, Glass.  The Douglas croft – with the adjoining Mackintosh croft lay on the “Slack” between Easter Bodilair and the Keith Road.

24 November 1888
Case of Alex. Fentie, farm servant, against Alex. Gordon, Upper Hilton; very slow man according to Sandy.  Last year an old man of 66 had cut 22 acres in eleven days by the Scythe.  Fentie had in ten days cut four acres or 290 stooks.

8 December 1888
Death of Mrs Fraser, Greystonefaulds age 92, born Thomaston, Drumblade 1796.  Married late George Fraser when she was 17, stayed at Greystonefaulds ever since, had 16 of a family.

22 December 1888
Funeral at Derby of Miss Elizabeth Gauld, third daughter of late James Gauld, farmer Little Hillockhead, Glass;  she was 33 and had been for 7 years a nurse at Derby County Asylum; buried Derby.

May 1889
Mr Williamson left Huntly Lodge for Innes House.  Capt. Turner came to Huntly Lodge from Netherdale, Marnoch.

18 May 1889
Death at the Market Inn, Glass on the 15^th May of Elizabeth Gauld age 75 wife of John Gordon, Inn Keeper.  Ill for one month; bronchitis.  Father Robert Gauld, Mother Elizabeth Robertson.

18 May 1889
Work started on the addition to Glass School.

12 July 1889
Mr James came as Rector of the Gordon Schools, Huntly from Forres at this time.

17 August 1889   Auchendoun.
The people of Strathbogie on hearing that the Covenanters Army was coming drove their cattle and horses for security to Auchendoun and Glenfiddich.  As soon as General Munro got wind of this he supplied himself freely, when the soldiers wanted they took, beef, mouten, kepen and such like out of Auchendoun and Glenfiddich where the country people had transported their bestial for safety.

14 December 1889
Glass.   The Editor of the Edinburgh Daily Review who was a native of Kinnoir and a member of the Established Church gave in his review of the life of the Duchess of Gordon, an account of the seven ministers of Strathbogie whom he called a jelly lot, particularly Jock o’Glass.  Jock had a tiff with his wife on one occasion and the lady took her own way of manifesting her displeasure.  She was appeased on finding one morning the following lines written in her album under the title of,

“Epitaph on the Rev John Cruickshank sometimes Minister of Glass”
“Beneath this stone, beside this bank
At his wife’s back lies John Cruickshank
Who lay through life in that condition
For drinking punch and takin’ sheepskin”

Glass Market was then in its heyday and the Rev John Cruickshank was by no means the least important personage during the three or four days it lasted.  A powerful man there were few who could cope with him with fist or stick or in his power of imbibing all kinds of spirituous liquors.  An old man told me that when he was a boy he was orraman at the Manse and that often in the evening during Glass Market days Mrs Cruickshank sent him to fetch home the Minister. “I didn’t need” he says, “ge into the tent to look for him”, “I could hear the noise of his voice on the outside fine. “Ah, he had a graun voice, what a voice for a preacher, ye culd hear him a mile off”  “We’el, when I found the tent where he was drinking, I gaed in”.  As soon as he saw me he said. “We’el I maun gang hame noo the Mistress has sent the laddie for me” An he jist cam’ awa’ hame wi’ me at once.

Rev John Cooper died 20 December 1795 he was the last Minister to occupy the Old Manse, as a Manse.  There is (1889) a pool with a rock beside it on the Deveron below Beldorney Castle called Crombie’s Pot and Crombie’s Chair, named after Rev George Meldrum who married the Crombie heiress.

1 March 1890
Death of James G. Innes at the Old Manse age 43.  Had an attack of influenza for three weeks and being of a robust constitution he did not recover.  He was Registrar for Births, Marriages and Deaths and Clerk to the School Board.  Left a widow and family.

28 March 1890
Mr Alexander Smith, Mains of Aswanly, Glass has acquired a lease on the fine farm of Cantrydown, Nairnshire at a considerable reduction from the present rent.  Cantrydown is beautifully situated in the valley of the Nairn and is a most desirable holding with dwelling house and steading almost new – the accommodation being more than ample for the farm.  There are in all 311 acres on the holding, 231 of which are arable and 80 of pasture.  The Smith family have been tenants of Aswanly for about 150 years and “the Smiths of Aswanly” have for long been a household word like “the Gauld’s of Glass”.  While sorry to lose from our neighbourhood a familiar and ever cheerful countenance, we heartily wish Mr Smith much prosperity and happiness in his more Northern abode.

The Smith’s departure from Glass to Nairnshire started a veritable exodus of their relations from Glass to the vicinity of Alex’s new abode.  In 1904 Alex’s eldest sister Mary married Wm Archibald of the Succoth, left that farm for the farm of Balfreish also on the Cantry estate; while in 1915 Isabella Archibald had married in 1910 John Taylor of the Gouls, Glass also left for Burnside of Lethen on the Lethen Estate in Nairnshire.

28 March 1890
Appointment at Glass.  There were, we learn, quite a host of applicants for the office of Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths, the whole of whom were parties well qualified for the duties and the Parochial Board are to be congratulated in electing a shopkeeper – one whose place of business is always open to the public.  Much inconvenience is often experienced when the Registrar has other engagements necessitating his being from home, and in such cases the Registrar should announce certain days and hours during which he will be in attendance at his office.  This was when Mr Gordon of the Market Inn was appointed.  On his death first his daughter took over until 1928 followed by her brother until 1935.  From that date the office came into the hands of Wm Duff at Wester Boghead and remained there till October 1945.  The next tenant of Boghead was Alex. Horn (late of Westerpark) who retained the office until parish registers were brought into larger centres – in the case of Glass this was Huntly.  The change took place in 1967.

5 April 1890
Mr Geddes of Blairmore, Glass has purchased from the Duke of Fife the upper portion of the estate of Bellyhack in the parish of Botriphnie consisting of the farms of Easter and Wester Corrie, Sluggan, Shiel etc.

12 April 1890
James Aberdein merchant and postmaster at the Haugh of Glass died on Wednesday 9 April age 54 years.  We believe he served his time in Charlestown, Aboyne and came to Glass about twenty five years ago (1865)  A firm advocate in the absolution of strong drink he took a paralysis three years ago from which he lost his speech and from which he never recovered.

The agents in Glass for the Huntly Express at this time were James Aberdein; W.I. Gordon, merchant; Thomas Davidson, carrier and William Pirie, carrier

26 April 1890
Died at Market Road, Glass, John Morrison, shoemaker age 78 years

31 May 1890
On Friday evening 30 May Mr and Mrs Smith, Mains of Aswanly, Glass were waited on by a few friends and presented with a marble timepiece with thermometer and barometer combined, two easy chairs and a silver tea service on the occasion of their leaving Glass for Cantrydown, Nairnshire.

7 June 1890
Death of John Morrison, crofter, Bodylair.

3 January 1891
Married at Cairnborrow David Wood MA Glass schoolmaster to Annie, daughter of John Edwards of Cairnborrow.

21 February 1891
Mr Dennistoun acquires the lease of Huntly Lodge for three years.

9 May 1891
Water for the Market Hill, Glass.  Sixty years ago (1831) that part of Glass called the Market Hill was uncultivated heath and marsh.  There were no dwelling houses from the Old Manse to Broadbog nor from Dallalchie to the Nether Hilton.  The place was a commonty, where the farmers sent their cattle to pasture during the summer afternoons.  The cattle generally pastured together, and were separated at night by the herds and driven home to their respective folds.

The road from Huntly to Dufftown ran through the middle of this pasture and the road from Keith to the Cabrach crossed about the centre – the road from Keith at that time being just a broken cart track.  This place was given off for crofts by the “Good Earl of Fife”  There are ten crofts besides four families occupying houses and yards.  Nearly sixty years ago (1833) the first house was erected at the East end of the Market Stance by the then beadle Alex. Dyker.  Next year Adam Shearer. A mason, built one on the North side of the Hill (this became the Smithy occupied by the Winks family) and the following year 1835 the first part of the present Market Inn was erected by one Alex. Mellis, a saddler, who got a licence for it as a public house.

In course of time other houses followed, the people building the houses and reclaiming the land at their own expense.  Since Mr Geddes of Blairmore bought the property some years ago, several improvements on this place have been made and one great boon to the people is just being completed.  There are eight or nine families living in houses at the East end of the Market Hill who were at a considerable distance from water and the supply they had often went dry in summer.  Thus it was no easy matter for the goodwives, especially on washing days, to carry a supply.  This has now been remedied by Mr Geddes.  There was a spring or two at the upper end of the Market Stance.  These have been drained into a large cistern built of cement; from the cistern to the road the water is conveyed in iron pipes; at the side of the road there is a recess made, with a trough where animals can slake their thirst, and there is a cock to turn the water on or off at pleasure.  Mr Wilson, Huntly did the plumber work and on Saturday last 2 May the water was turned on by Mr Geddes himself and given as a birthday gift to the people of the Market Hill.

13 June 1891
The telegraph to Glass will soon be in order.  The poles will be put up this week and by the end of the month the system will be in operation.  When will the railway come?

13 June 1891
Huntly Lodge has been taken by Mr Worthington, the brewer.

1 August 1891
Long article on Glass Market.  Glass was one of the most important markets of its kind in the North of Scotland; a market that wielded great influence in the agriculture calendar in many counties.  Not to have been to Glass Market was to admit that a very significant part of one’s education had been seriously neglected.  Duff would fight Gauld to a finish.  In days gone by there was the old fashioned performing booths of temporary theatres in which one might have seen the |Waterloo veteran whose arms had been smashed by a thunderbolt in Jamaica; the penny peep-shows where one might see “The Bombardment of Copenhagen”, or “The Battle of the Nile”/  Also “plunky” for sale and the inevitable piper and fiddler playing “The Downfall of Paris” or “Victory over Bonaparte”

8 January 1892
Death on 8 January at the Market Inn, Glass of John Gordon, Innkeeper

27 February 1892
Death at the Haugh of Glass on 22 February of Mary Gauld eldest daughter of the late Alex. Gauld, Mains of Edinglassie

14 May 1892   At Craigdornie, Glass 9 May James Smith, crofter age 85.  For long he was game keeper at Beldorney Castle; the famous “Goshen” a name derived from a croft called Stoneley he once occupied.

14 May 1892
Within the past fortnight we have lost four inhabitants of our small population by death.  Jessie McKenzie, Market Hill, a girl of eleven; on the 3^rd George Gauld, Greystonefaulds (late of Loanhead) in his 84^th year; on Monday James Smith, Craigdorney (Goshen) aged 86, for many years he was head gamekeeper at Beldorney.  On Wednesday James Smith, Demeath, died after a long illness with great patience and resignation.  He acted for many years as carrier between Glass and Huntly.  He was a man of sterling integrity and was highly respected.

14^th May 1892
Death on 12 May of Adam Dunbar founder of the Huntly Express.  For a number of years Mr Dunbar had been in poor health and about the middle of January (1892) he became worse but by April as the days got warmer he seemed in better spirits, although all who saw him noticed that the old man was breaking rapidly.  On the 7^th May however he seemed stronger and undertook a journey to Dufftown – a spot of which he was intensely fond and where he had many friends.  He arrived there none the worse of the journey and last accounts on Saturday evening from “Blinkbonny”, the residence of his friends Mr and Mrs Begg, told that “he was well”.  By Monday morning however the sad news was that he had been affected by a stroke of paralysis, the left side being wholly powerless.  Dr Innes was called in and as the days passed it was but too evident that recovery was impossible.  He rallied a little on Tuesday but after that got gradually weaker, and on Wednesday was unconscious for many hours.  On Thursdayhowever sensibility returned and surrounded by his youngest son Joseph and his friends who lovingly watched him during his last hours, he gently fell asleep at half past seven o’clock in the evening.  An impressive service was held in the house before the removal of the body by Rev James Smith of the Free Church.  The remains were removed from “Blinkbonny” Dufftown to his own residence at Huntly at 12 o’clock Saturday forenoon.  The route taken being through Auchendoun and over the Corsmaul.

It was a striking coincidence that the route homewards should have been that which Mr Dunbar was so familiar in his early youth, and had traversed to frequently, and where he was so well known and who at all times spoke in the warmest terms as his happiest days.

The funeral on Monday at 12 noon to the New Cemetery, Huntly was one of the largest ever seen in Huntly.

(Should anyone be interested in Mr Dunbar – a full account of his life is given in the Huntly Express of this date)

11 June 1892
At Glenbeg, Glass 8 June Jane King age 95 widow of late George Gauld, farmer there.  She was born in 1799, married about 1820.  Geo. Gauld died 1863

18 June 1892
Marriage at Fleetwood of Wm Gauld, youngest son of late James Gauld, farmer, Little Hillockhead, Glass to Christina Murray daughter of James Murray of Fleetwood.  The ceremony was performed by the bride’s brother Rev J. Murray.

2 July 1892
Free Church of Watten, Caithness elected Rev Wm. G. Robertson MA to be colleague and successor to their aged pastor Rev Alex. Gunn.  Mr Robertson is the youngest son of James Robertson, farmer, Barefolds, Glass

6 August 1892
Mr Geddes to install electric light at Blairmore, water driven.

17 September 1892   Batty Langley becomes Lord Mayor of Sheffield.  His second wife Mrs Langley belongs to Glass.  Minnie Langley, Glass pupil teacher.

24 September 1892
Presentation to Alex. Gray, farmer, Waterside, Glass.  He said it was upwards of thirty years since he commenced work as land measurer for Glass.  The late Mr George Gordon, Boghead, Glass was his predecessor.  In his day the Scots acre was the standard measurement.

22 October 1892
Death of the aforementioned Alex. Gray.  “Old Waterside” as he was called was 73 of age.  Self-taught; a great reader; good writer; was writer correspondent for the Aberdeen Journal.

24 December 1892
Alma memories of an artilleryman but could mirror Geo Watt’s experiences.  “The ground was wavy with ridge after ridge and as the troops ascended these the effect was grand.  The stillness of the air was impressive – no sound- no music – the very tread of the horses was hushed in the long grass.  The enemy was soon visible on the heights above the river – masses of Cavalry and infantry with entrenchments and artillery were posted on every commanding height.  The confidence of Prince Henschikoff was so great that he had invited friends, including ladies from Sebastopol to see his guns sweep us down the “steeps” of Alma.  We found it difficult to cross with our guns.  The Water was deep and the banks high.  Suffered from the guns when near the entrenchment batteries.  The Guards, and Highlanders charged with the bayonet and the enemy were driven out.  The battle lasted 2 ½ hours.  We camped in the field that night.  I think there were few who did not thank the Almighty for their safety – some perhaps who had never so before.  Some of us got water and went over the field to help if possible our poor wounded soldiers.  After removing the wounded and burying the dead the march continued.”

4 February 1893
When digging the grave of Peter Geddes in Wallakirk, a gold coin was found.  A Lion of the Reign of James 1^st of Scotland 1406-1437.  On one side are the letters JACOBVS DEI GRACIA REX SCO along with a reproduction of the Arms of Scotland on a lozenge shield, a large crown above and a fleur-de-lys between some of the words.  On the reverse side are the mint mark, as plain cross between two fleur-de-lys with the inscription;- SALVVM FAC POLVLVM TVVM. A St Georges Cross in the centre of an orb of six crescents having fleur-de-lys at the point with roses between.  The coin is in wonderful condition, sharp and bright in appearance, probably of a native gold   being quite different in hue from present days sovereigns.  It was sent to Dr Cramond, Cullen.

25 March 1893
At 37 George Street, Huntly on 24^th March William Irvine Gordon age 25, Divinity student.  A long time in poor health he suffered terribly the last six months.  Eldest son of John Gordon, postman between Huntly and Glass.  Educated at the Gordon Schools, Huntly and straight from there to Aberdeen University.  Was entering his second year when health broke down.  A popular young man who would have gone far.  A large funeral.  Family mourners, his father, two younger brothers and an uncle – Wm. Irvine Gordon from Glass.

20 May 1893
Sale at Waterside, Glass, land to be added to adjoining farms and a wall put round the old house which will be deroofed and left to the ivy to cover it up.  This was where the Gray farmed for many years, the farm being erased in order to add policies to Blairmore House.

30 September 1893
Blairmore House now lit by electricity, also the cottages on the low road.

14 October 1893
Alex. Robertson, Graystone, Glass has received an appointment with a counting house in Edinburgh.  He was Clerk to the School Board of Glass and the means of starting the Volunteer Corps in Glass.

28 October 1893
Thomas Gauld, Blairmore Cottages, appointed to the Glass School Board in place of Alex. Robertson.  On the same date Alex. Robertson was presented with a handsome writing desk before he left.

18 November 1893
Interesting letter on Huntly in olden times.

January 1894
Glass Oddfellows were Rev. D.M. Ross: Wm Ferguson: David Wood, schoolmaster: Jas Cameron etc.

3 February 1894
St Wallach’s Well and Bath.  Were quite recently in fame for their healing qualities.  The well is 30 yards below the old kirkyard and is now dry.  It was frequented by people with sore eyes and everyone who went left a pin in a hole which had been cut, either by nature or by art, in a stone beside the well.  Dr Duguid says he has seen this hole full of pins at the end of May.  It was thus not on the Saints Day 29^th January, but in May that both bath and well were frequented in late times at least.  The bath is a cavity in the rock three or four feet deep and is supplied by a small spring coming out of the brae about 20 yards above the bath, and the water trickles over the east end of the cavity, falling down the rock some four feet into the river.  It was famed for curing children who were not thriving and Dr Duguid says that he first came to Glass 1812 – hundreds of children were dipped in it every year, a rag, an old shirt, or an old bib from the child’s body being hung on a tree beside the bath, or thrown into it.  When the Deveron was in flood it got into the bath and swept all the offerings down into the sea.

3 March 1894
Dr Cran built Townfield House some years ago.  The Branders now 1894 – occupy it.

17 May 1894
At Edinglassie, Glass  Alex. Duncan, medical student age 24, son of John Duncan, farmer there.  The funeral to Botriphnie was the largest ever seen to pass the Market Hill in the memory of the oldest inhabitant.

24 March 1894   A proposal to build a branch railway line from Mulben which would come through Cairnie and Glass before joining the main line at Huntly; the idea of the Highland Railway – nothing came of it.

12 May 1894
At Mill of Invermarkie birth of twins to wife of John Lipp, miller

9 June 1894
At 1 Albert Terrace, Huntly, James Taylor age 70, late farmer Gouls, Glass

16 June 1894
Presentation at Watten, to Rev. Mr Robertson, son of Barefolds.

30 June 1894
Marriage of John Grant, blacksmith, Glass.

4 August 1894
Long article on Glass Market.  In 1874 it began on Monday and continued in some form or another till very near the break of the following Sabbath.  2 days for bargaining it took the rest of the week to settle the accumulated funds of the year.  Few parishes have changed for the better since the ownership of Geddes.

6 October 1894
Mr Fraser, hirer, Fife Keith is to run a bus daily to Huntly from the Haugh of Glass in the forenoon and from the Square to Glass in the afternoon.

20 October 1894
Widening of the Bogie Bridge; the date stone 1807 and the masons mark found.

22 December 1894
Dispute over succession at Barefolds after death in 1892 of Jas. Robertson of family Jas eldest son, John Robertson and Rev Wm Robertson, eldest son was not consulted over the valuation.

5 January 1895
Robert Symon, hirer Huntly has commenced running a brake between Huntly and Glass.  Leave the Haugh every morning at 7.40 am and leave the Square at 3.15 pm for Glass.

5 January 1895
Great snow blizzard the worst in memory.  One large wreath was 30 feet deep.  “The snow wis jist blawin’ things at the hedges like spice frae a mill” the comment of a native of Glass who saw the full force of the blizzard.

Story of a wedding at Goshen, Glass.  The bridegroom left Speyside by  train for Dufftown to be at Goshen for the ceremony at 2 pm.  He left Dufftown by brake but when they came to the Corsmaul the two horses could go no farther.  The groom decided that with a friend he would walk over the hills to Goshen.  By walking over Glenmarkie through bogs and concealed water courses they arrived at Goshen at half past two, to the astonishment of the waiting party.  But there was no Minister, the clock struck three – four and five but still no Minister, he having been stuck in a drift at Nether Dumeath and finding it impossible to proceed had returned to the manse.  It does not say if this was one of the Glass Ministers or not – but it seems likely that it was the Free Church.  At 5 o’clock two men were sent to the UP Church of the Cabrach, a distance of four miles, a journey which took two hours.  On reaching the Manse they were welcomed by the newly ordained Rev Mr Tulloch.  In five minutes time after entering the Manse, Mr Tulloch said, “Come on my lands, I’m ready to brave the storm to make two into one”.  At nine o’clock on the Saturdaynight Mr Tulloch, who is a robust young man, after a great struggle, reached Goshen where he was warmly applauded.  After he had tied his first marriage knot he spent a pleasant hour at Goshen and then amid the blinding drift wended his way back to the Cabrach.

16 February 1895
A daughter of Wm Wans died at New York age 86

9 March 1895
Died at 26 George Street, Huntly Lily Mellis, late of Collonich, Glass age 88

6 April 1895
Death of Alex. Gordon, Auldyne in the storm; he was age 34.  He set out for Dufftown on the Thursday intending returning about 5 o’clock in the evening.  At Auldyne as the evening progressed they began to become anxious.  On Friday a man was sent to Dufftown but was told there that Gordon had left on Thursday, this man searched on both journeys but could find no trace.  On Saturday when the drift was again coming on another man was sent to Dufftown.  In the meantime a party of men searched Corsmaul but no sign.  On Sunday morning, word having spread over Glass, about one hundred men met at ten o’clock for the purpose of going over the Corsmaul thoroughly, it being surmised that Gordon had taken the near cut over the hill, the surmise proved correct and between 11 and 12 o’clock quite near the summit of Corsmaul, within a few yards of the Aberdeenshire-Banffshire border they found the body, he was lying on his back, eyes wide open, one leg was drown up and both hands were firmly clenched, while his staff was lying between his legs,  He was within ¾ of a mile of Auldyne and home.

(see poem in Memory of Alexander Gordon by J. McW.)

20 April 1895
Death at Succoth, Glass of John Archibald age 87 retired farmer.  One of the four Johns, the first four elders of Glass Free Church.  A great liberal in politics.

20 April 1895
Alexander Gordon of Auldyne was a lineal descendant of the Jock & Tam Gordons.  We had a talk with a Glass man well versed in Gordon History.  Over his grave at Wallakirk are two stones both of which have the Gordon armorial bearings.

27 April 1895   Death by suicide at Hong Kong of Alex. Cuthbert a native of Glass – more of Cairnie it was said – age 26 he had been a regular soldier for 7 years before joining HK Police.  He arrived only 10 days ago one of a party of 10 new men to the Force.

25 May 1895
Cairnie is far behind in getting a cart for the post;  Glass has had a cart for many years.

3 August 1895
Glass Market.  The old booths, the miniature stages; the gaudily dressed performers, they have all now gone, they are of the past, their place has been taken by merry-go-rounds; swing boats; and air gun shooting.

Saying;- “when corn is short at Glass Market – it will not be a late harvest”

7 September 1895   Aitken, Bogenspro fined 15/- for assaulting one of servants who had gone to the assistance of his wife (Aitken’s) when her husband began to ill use her on coming home drunk.  Aitken father of Aitken, Bodilair, Glass.

12 October 1895
Bogie Bridge, Huntly opened October 1895.  The first bridge over the Bogie was built in 1686 by the 1^st Duke of Gordon.  It was very narrow – just the same width as the bridge over the Deveron leading to Huntly Lodge – it was widened in 1807 by adding another half to the old part.  Old residents remember seeing carts being assisted over the old bridge; it was so steep in the centre.

25 January 1896
Some word of a mart for Huntly.  Elgin had one.  The mart was opened later in the year.

28 January 1896
Articles about Huntly.  About 1750 Mr Sime was Minister of Glass; he had as a parishioner Mr Gordon, Auchmill, who entertained a long grudge against him.  Mr Sime got the call to Mortlach and as usual preached his farewell sermon which Gordon honoured with his presence.  To a third party extolling the discourse to the skies Mr Gordon replied by asking the text.  On being told, Acts 20.22 “And I go bound in the spirit of Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me” he said. “Ah curse him, weel kens he that the stipend of Mortlach is fifty pun’ better than the stipend of Glass.”  (dates not quite correct – Sime went to Mortlach in 1734)

25 January 1896
A ploughing match at the Upper Hilton.  Sandy Gordon gave refreshments during the match and afterwards entertained the committee to dinner.  Note Sandy left the Upper Hilton soon afterwards for Brownhills, Oyne.

23 March 1896
Articles on life in the past.

11 April 1896
Glass School report.  This school is taught with distinctly superior power and skill.  The two pupils proceeding beyond the third stage in Latin construed portions of Livy very intelligently.

23 May 1896   The Civil Wars of Charles 1 and those of the Commonwealth had left Strathbogie manless, moneyless and horseless.  In 1692 wages were 10/- to 15/- a year, half that for women.  In 1648 the Old Road was called the High Street and the only bridge over Deveron was at the Castle.  At end of 17^th century (1696 Poll Tax) there was no baker, butcher, tailor or dressmaker in Huntly and for the next 50 years a person had to be sent to Aberdeen on foot to bring the bread and wine for Communion, although by end of 18^th century he used a horse.

Houses.  Till 1745 the houses had walls of turf and mud floors, no windows and no chimneys.  A big hole in the roof served both purposes.  The fire was in the middle of the floor so that the smoke could escape by the hole in the roof.  In wet weather rain ran down the blackened rafters down on to the occupants below.  Cattle and humans occupied the same room but in better quality houses they built a low wall partitioning that part where the animals lay or were tied up.  But in all cases the outer door  which was sometimes a cow hide – served both man and beast.  Behind the fire might be seen comfortably reclining a sow and her litter.  The balks of the roof and rafters were resting places for the fowls.  The bed consisted of four slabs sunk into the ground so as to leave 18” above the surface of the floor, within that space thus formed heather with the roots turned downwards was packed as closely as possible and the soft crops forming the mattress.   Over this was spread a rough plaid to form a covering of blankets.  Children generally slept in a corner on a litter of straw, the whole family in the same room.  A few spars laid end to end across the roof resting on the gable tops with branches and trees laid over and covered with divots cut by the flachter spade then covered with straw or sprots, the whole tied down with ropes.  A writer of 1811 says that in Huntly within last 30 years – 1780 – none of the houses were built of stone and lime and comparatively few even of stone and clay.

Dress.   Taylor the water poet visiting Gordon Castle early in 17^th century says the Duke and his guests fed at the upper table, after they had finished the servants fed at the lower table.  Dress rough cloth made from wool of sheep known as plaidin and scourins and sometimes hodden gray.  Dress of better class working folk; – dress is shoes with a sole apiece; stockings which are cale hose; as for breeches there are none, but a jerkin of tartan; their garters bands of straw or hay with a plaid about their shoulders, a flat blue bonnet on their heads with a handkerchief knit in two knots about their necks.  He adds; farmers and cottars wore coarse gray plaiding which every family manufactured for its own use.

Young men went bareheaded till they were married then they put on a blue bonnet.  They tanned their own shoes which were without soles and had the hair left on the hide for warmth.  These were called rivlins or revelings.  The women wore a coarse woollen of their own spinning called druggist which they dipped in some sable dye and never washed it so that when they moved about they created an atmosphere that might be felt.  They wore a plaid round their necks at Kirk and market and went barefooted except in dead of winter.

The want of cleanliness was the great fault of the Scots.  Instead of soap they used cow dung and  urine.  The clothes for washing were thrust in a tub covered with cow dung, they lay in this for a day or two; this was called “boking the clothes”.  They were then put to the river side and placed in a tub of water into which the women would place their naked feet and dance on them, afterwards they were drawn through the river, this was called “rinsing” they were then pronounced clean.

Before the cloth was woven it was dipped in foeted urine – known as “strang” – to scour  the cloth and take out the oil – then washed as above.

In Strathbogie in 1753 the Minister had no watch and had to rely on the sand glass which stood beside the pulpit to keep the time of sermon.

Meals.  Kale brose kale and barley sowens oatmeal main diet, with a cow or stirk drowned or killed a treat.

6 June 1896
Many may sigh for the “good old days” when people apparently lived in a state of Orcadian innocence when peace plenty and perpetual happiness abounded but nothing could be farther from the truth when old records are examined….

“The Gordons they are Kittle flaws
They’ll fecht like ony thing man
When they meet in Strathbogie Raws
On a Thursday afterneen man”

Not a single market day passed without assault and bloodshed and nor entirely confines to the lower orders but among farmers , merchants and people of the then middle class were also involved.

20 June 1896
Died at Manse of Lhanbryde Isabella Gordon age 74 a sister of Rev Chas. Gordon

1 August 1896
Huntly Lodge let to Percy Barlow.

26 September 1896
Died at Succoth, Glass Margaret Taylor widow of late John Archibald age 99.

2  January 1897
Death of John Simon, Torry, Glass – elder of Established Church, Session Clerk and Inspector of Poor.  Claims against his estate went to Davidson & Garden advocates 245 Union Street, Aberdeen.

3 February 1897
Huntly Auction Mart opened  Owned by Elgin Mart Co.

13 February 1897
Huntly Lodge taken by Reginald Cholmondeley

6 March 1897
Death of Jas. Gordon age 33 in Edinburgh of Edinburgh Police. 2^nd son of late Alexander Gordon, Oldyne; his brother died on the Corsmaul in a storm 2 years ago.  Gordons of Auldyne very old Glass family and this branch in the male line is now extinct.

March 1897   Foxes shot on the Gromack

17 April 1897   Death of Alex. Smart, Mains of Beldorney, Glass; age 81 born 1816 at St Stairs, Culsalmond he came to Glass with his father Peter Smart when he was 13 (1829).  He left Mains of Beldorney 8 years ago (1889) for the Mains of Auchendachie, Keith.  Great Free Churchman the moving spirit at getting the Free Church to Glass.  The first Free Church sermon head in Glass was preached in a cart shed at the Old Manse under the following circumstances;- Mr Smart, Beldorney, the late Mr Robertson, Tomnaven had arranged with a Minister (was this Spence of St Clements Aberdeen) holding Free Church views to come to the parish; a mill barn at the Old Manse having been bespoken for a meeting house, but when the two gentlemen arrived at the Old Manse on Sabbath morning with the preacher they found the barn door locked and the goodman away at the Established Church with the key in his pocket.  Mr Smart and Robertson entreated the goodwife for the use of the cart shed which was granted.  The carts were at once removed and the shed converted into a church.  At the close of the service Robertson said to Smart, “Sandy, we must have a better meeting place”  Mr Smart promised to give the use of his barn at Beldorney which was taken advantage of till a wooden church was erected at Edinglassie.  During the time the services were held at Beldorney, Smart used to give the preachers free lodging.  Mr Smart was for many years an Elder of the Free Church and was associated with the memorable “Four Johns” who were quite an authority in Glass.  He was also a teacher at the Sunday School etc.

24 April 1897   Aitken of Bogenspro charged with assaulting his wife – struck her with the flat side of a shovel, chased his daughter and struck her.  At his trial stated that he was continually drunk; jailed for 40 days.

1 May 1897
Death of Dr Geo. Wilson, Huntly MD age 86.  Born at Brangan, Boyndie 1811.  In 1829 he came to Huntly as assistant to Dr Duncan McColl an old Naval Surgeon, he lived at Tollobeg.  Succeeded McColl, in turn succeeded by his son Dr. J.O. Wilson.

8 May 1897
Died at Cantrydown, Fort George on 25 April age 29 Maggie Keir wife of Alexander Smith.

7 August 1897
Chas. Horne, native of parish outside Huntly, speaking of the days when Rev Mr Hill was Congregational Minister of Huntly, says droves of children could be seen coming along the roads from GLASS, Cairnie, Rhynie etc led by their teachers coming to hear Mr Hill once a year and singing as they went.

“Jerusalem as a city is
Compactly built together
And into it the tribes go up
The tribes of God go thither”

7 August 1897
Great storm.  In GLASS on Sunday afternoon 1 August commenced at Badcheir where some ducks and hens were killed,  travelled NE through the Chapelhill and on past Edinglassie.

About 5 o’clock a deal  of thunder, very dark, pieces of ice began to fall with great force causing cattle and horses to run in alarm.  Some pieces the shape of a saucer about 3” diameter, others shaped like small perfume bottles and some oval in shape the size of a duck egg.  These lay to depth of 2 inches all over Glass for more than an hour.  When Robertson of Blacklug went to yoke his horse he had to take a shovel to remove the lumps of ice from it.

30 October 1897
Interesting letter from Jas. Craigen, New Jersey, native of Gartly, knew Wains of Belnaboth.

11 December 1897
Letter on the character of Piper Findlater, VC

1 January 1898
Death of Robert Gauld of Binn Toll House, born Altnapodoch, Glass in 1820 he was 78 years, had been 40 years at Binn Toll.

8 January 1898
Died at house of her son in law Edinburgh, Jane Cruickshank age 86 widow of Charles Gordon, Glass Postman at Huntly.

5 March 1898
Death of Barbara Peterkin age 99, native Glass, widow of John Wilson, 26 Old Road, Huntly  born Glass February 1799.

18 June 1898
Constable Strath was Police Constable at Glass, Oxhill, Enzie

10 September 1898
Died at Glenbeg 8 September George Gauld age 71 buried Wallakirk

24 September 1898
Death of boy age 3 son of James Duff, Boghead, from burning.

8 October 1898
At 37 George Street, Huntly 7 October John, youngest son of John Gordon, postman age 28.

24 December 1898
Death of Michael Mahoney, veteran soldier of 42^nd Alma; Indian Mutiny; at 17 Littlejohn Street.

7 January 1899
Drawn in first ballot May 1798 & ordered to be called out and embodied.  John Gauld, cartwright Plylands and W. Craig, labourer Lettach both GLASS.

18 March 1899
At Market Road, Glass 14 March 1899 Elizabeth Helen (Bessie) daughter of William and Jeannie Gordon age 1 year and 6 months

1 April 1899
Article on Glass by Dr Cramond, schoolmaster of Glass

10 June 1899
Note on Jas Spence born Gartly 1793 ; a sister was Mrs Fraser of Greystonefaulds, Glass.  He went to USA about 1840,

24 June 1899
Died at Mains of Edinglassie, Glass 21 June John Duncan age 63 a Liberal he came to Edinglassie about 1876 from the Corrie.

22 July 1899
Died at 15 Princes St. Huntly 15 July James Paterson Dunn age 14 years (son of Peter and Charlotte Dunn)

19 August 1899
Death of James Morrison, crofter and grocer Chapelhill, Glass thee other day, he was in poor health for some time.  He was born at Glen of Chapelford in 1839 and began life as a farm servant; after service on the railway at age of 24 he married Miss Archibald, Chapelhill and a few years later became tenant of his father in law’s croft, soon he started a grocers shop in say 1863, and did a good trade in Glass and the Cabrach.  Staunch Conservative in politics he leaves a widow and 13 children, there had been 15 in all but two died in infancy.

2 September 1899
During recent thunderstorm in Glass one of three historic trees at Oldyne were struck and damaged.  Said that a tree was planted by the Laird of Edinglassie near the home of each man who went out with him in the Rebellion of 1745 and that the three at Oldyne were said to commemorate three Gordons from Oldyne who went with Edinglassie to Culloden.  (WRONG the Duff’s owned Edinglassie at time of Culloden – according to Mr Gordon)

2 September 1899
Note on Wm McMillan of Newark, New Jersey.  Born Inverness 1830 mother was Jane Wans only daughter of Wm Wans, Belnaboth, Glass.  Family had Woodhead, Botriphnie, he spent much of his childhood with his grandfather at Belnaboth and had his schooling at Glass under Arthur Stephen.  Went to America in 1855.

23 September 1899
A quotation from the Edinburgh Evening News on report that the Gordons are to avoid Huntly on their route march; a letter written in protest and signed AR meant that the writer was Alex. Robertson of Greystone.

7 October 1899
A poem by Peter Jopp an undergraduate of Aberdeen.  He is to publish his work soon at University.

28 October 1899
Died 22 October at 5 West Park St. Huntly James Wilson age 66  native of Glass.

23 December 1899
Note on Robert Bruce on death in Milwaukee – first station master at Huntly.

16 February 1900
Professor Geddes died at Chanory Lodge 9^th February.  Born 21 November 1828

30 March 1900
Died at Haugh of Glass 24 March Alexander Gauld age 56 elder son of late Alexander Gauld, farmer Edinglassie and for past 15 years a gamekeeper on Blairmore Estate.

11 May 1900
Died at Bodylair, Glass 4 May James Robson age 74

29 June 1900
Arrived Glass on Monday Mr A. Wilson a son of late Wilson late Postmaster Haugh of Glass; for last 30 years been resident in Nova Scotia.  An extensive landed proprietor.

November 1900
Farm of Cairnborrow, Glass 200 acres arable and 61 acres pasture has been let to William Robertson, late of Bonfail, Glass

15 March 1901
Died at Bush Cottage, Aberlour 8 March 1901 George Garden, chemist age 32.  Son of John Gordon – the “Post”

15 March 1901   Died at Demeath, Glass Robert Archibald age 79.  Born Demeath.  Established Church member – 2^nd son succeeds.

29 March 1901
In 1771 at Huntly crossing the Bogie Bridge the carrier after he had got a cart and dispensed with pack horses could not ascend the steep bridge and had to blow his horn when around twenty or so weavers came out with ropes to help pull the cart up the steep slope and hold it back the other side.

5 April 1901
Farm house of Terryhorn destroyed by fire; occupied by Mrs Cameron

12 April 1901
Died at Newton of Glenmarkie Thomas Duncan.  Born at Mains of Bellyhack 1809.  Elder son of Mr Duncan, farmer there.  He came to Glenmarkie in 1867.

3 May 1901
Glass about the Shearers.  A correspondent writes.

James and John Shearer were farmers at end of 1700.  It was very common in Glass for two brothers to have parts of the same farm with houses beside the other, and these two held the Upper Hilton.  Whether the Shearers had been centres in Hilton before this I do not know but I know they were old residenters at that time.  The one we are sprung from was married to one of the Glass or “Gerrie” Robertsons, who was born at Waterside and was two years old at Culloden.  They had a family of 5 or 6 sons and 1 daughter.  James went to Morayshire, John, our grandfather, married Jane Mellis at Parkhead and got the croft there – he had 2 sons and 2 daughters with Jane Mellis.  Adam lived and put up the house where John Wink, blacksmith resides; George had the farm of Dallachy and had one daughter Helen, who married their own servant named Duffus.  I knew them both well.  Hugh had the farm of Mill of Milton, Huntly and an aunt of my mother’s – Bell Mellis kept house to him in his later years.  After his death Dr Christie, Huntly had the farm, and my mother’s aunt kept house to him until he gave it up.  A James McIntyre was grieve; I knew them all well.  The daughter was married to Barefolds and was Jean and Barbara’s mother and also of sons.  The other Shearer was married but had only one daughter and she was married to the present Laird of Blairmore’s grandfather who was called John Geddes and they had one daughter who was called Peggie Geddes.  The mother died early and the daughter lived to womanhood and then died and John Geddes married a second wife called Annand, from whom the present race of Goddesses are sprung.  But back to the Upper Hilton.  It was through Robertson, my mother’s grandmother that the Shearers lost the Upper Hilton.  It happened this way.  One of the McWilliams of Glass was getting married to someone at Botriphnie the road to which at that time passed by the house of Upper Hilton.  The marriage party was on horseback and “Old Luckie” as she was called, went out and rang a girdle at them in the passing, which displeased some of the party very much.  The McWilliams at some former time were blamed for stealing pots and this was looked upon as an insult.  One McWilliam, nicknamed “Colne” who lived  at Drumduan was among them; he was a bad character and said he would make it as good as old meal in her kist.  He went to Banff to the Duke of Fife and represented the Shearers as great smugglers and everything that was bad and asked him to put them out of the farm as he knew of a good tenant.  Fife told him to go to the Factor at Nether Cluny and get it done.  My great grandmother had got scent of what was going on and went to Fife herself and got his consent to remain but the matter with Colne and the Factor was too far advanced.  The Gordons by this time had got it so the Shearers were turned out.  Strange to say now the Gordons are out and the same Robertsons are in.

 17 May 1901
At the May Term Mrs Edwards left Cairnborrow for her farm at Artloch.  As shown above 9 November 1900 Cairnborrow was let to Wm Robertson late of Bonfail.

26 June 1901
A pair of wild cats were seen recently near the farm of Westfolds in Glass.

28 June 1901
Late Mrs Taylor, Tombellie Cabrach died age 76 born 1826.   The Taylors are said to have migrated to Glass, Cabrach and Buchan from the Black Isle about the end of the 15^th Century.  Taylors have been at Tombellie for three hundred years.  The Buchan roots are lost in obscurity and the only root now living is John Taylor of the Gowls, Glass.

26 July 1901
Marriage of Mary Ann eldest daughter of James George 5 Reidhaven St. Keith##16 August 1901   In Glass paraffin lamps unknown till end of Crimean War.  During Peninsular War only fir candles used for light.  Hundreds of tons of fir are annually extracted from the pear mosses of the Cabrach and Gartly.  On the hearth of every house hung big bundles of fir candles while on the hearth lay the candle gully – a short broad sharp knife and the chandelier or candle holder.  Black oily lamps came in after 1857 although in several houses they appeared before that.

15 November 1901
Mary Archibald of Succoth left for Durban South Africa.  Jeannie Archibald 4^th daughter of Succoth, school teacher.

10 January 1902
Wm. Gordon, Registrar for Glass has been awarded by the Registrar General the maximum bonus sanctioned by Treasury for efficiency and general character of the work in connection with the taking of the Census in April 1901

7 March 1902   Died at Drumduan, Glass 21 February Annie Moir age 89.  Miss Moir born at Drumduan in 1812.  The Moirs came to Glass and have resided at Drumduan fully 218 years; during the first 189 years they tenanted Drumduan.  During the last 10 years or so Miss Moir has been extremely frail and had been under the care of her friend.  On the death of her brother Robert some 24 years ago Drumduan was occupied by a tenant of another name, Mr Wm. Watt.  Mr & Mrs Watt had been extremely kind to Miss Moir and when a new farm house was erected at Drumduan they allowed Miss Moir to occupy the old one.  The Moirs of Drumduan are said to be descendants of “Lang Johnny Moir” who is so much spoken of by our local historians and poets.  A sister of Miss Moir is still living at Forgue age 96.

21 March 1902
Died at Mains of Glenbucket, Christina Fletcher wife of Alex Fletcher.

2 May 1902
A Ping Pong Club formed in Glass.  35 members.

23 May 1902
Died at Parkhaugh age 69 Cumming Duff.

15 May 1902
Glass Coronation celebrations held on top of Market Hill at 9 pm fireworks set off.  Geo. Milne, gamekeeper played the bagpipes.  Rain came on about 10.30 which marred the event.

 4 July 1902
At Blairmore, Glass 2 July Alex. Geddes age 59.  Had been feeling a little ill in Chicago and thought that a breath of fresh air in Scotland would do him good.  He left UK for USA in 1860 was tenant of Invermarkie at first.  In 1888 he gave up Blairmore but retained Invermarkie.  Blairmore cost between £25.000 and £30.000.

9 July 1902   Death of Mr Alexander Geddes of Blairmore and Chicago

Mr Geddes arrived from Chicago a few days ago for the purpose of witnessing the Coronation in London.  Prior to leaving America he was feeling somewhat rundown, but he thought a breath of air in the Old Country would set him up again.  Shortly after his arrival at Invermarkie Lodge he was laid up and at the outset his doctors thought his condition exceedingly grave.  Mrs Geddes who was in Chicago with the family was sent for.  For a few days he seemed to rally a little and on Wednesday of last week (25 June) he was able to be removed to Blairmore House.  The improvement was temporary, strength was lost on Sunday and Monday, and the end came on Wednesday 2^nd July, in the morning.  Mrs Geddes arrived at Blairmore on Sunday afternoon (29 June) and was thus able to be with her husband when he died.  He left Glass in 1860 for America.  He built Blairmore in 1885 for a cost of £25,000 – £30,000.  Mrs Geddes was a daughter of the late Dr Hugh Sharp of Cullen.

After the death of Alex. Geddes a sale of Aberdeen Angus cattle took place at Blairmore on Saturday 13 September 1902.  A sumptuous lunch was set in one of the lofts to a large gathering from far and near.  29 head of cattle were sold by auction and the following is the average price paid;-

14 cows  –  £30    Total £420.0.0.
3 two year heifers  £29.1.0.  – Total £87.3.0.
4 yearling heifers  £26.2.4.  –  Total £104.9.6.
6 heifer calves  £19.5.0.  –  Total £115.10.0.
2 bulls  £118.13.0.  –  Total £237.6.0.

Grand Total £964.8.6.

 5 September 1902
Thos. Dow gets Howmill – had been with Geddes at Invermarkie since 1873.  Miss Niven of Ythan Wells who has acted as assistant at Glass School for past 2 years has been promoted to succeed Miss Dey, Forkins who has retired.  Glass Cricket Club formed.  Alex Gauld, Blairmore; Alex Innes, Old Manse. Played on Market Hill but steps taken to secure other site.

26 September 1902
At a recent examination for school bursary at Glass School by Mr James of the Gordon Schools, Mary Gordon, Market Hill was 1^st and John Robertson, Drumduan 2^nd.  Accident to Geo. Dow 6 year old son of Thos. Dow, Howmill – he fell on an open knife which penetrated his forehead not badly hurt.

10 October 1902
Accident to lad Ewen at Huntly.  At Aberdeen Sheriff Court, John Bryan, mason, Market Hill said he was working in the erection of new house at the farm  – was it the Upper Hilton or Bodylair – and went along with 4 others to dig out the lad.  His watch had stopped at 1.40 pm

28 November 1902
Gartly about 1821.  Houses made of “fell” open from floor to roof no attics.  Coffee, sugar, loaf, bread from wheat unknown.  Oatmeal, bannocks, sowens, home brewed ale from malt or molasses when milk scarce.

5 December 1902
Gartly.  Jas Cordoner schoolmaster – he was afterwards Minister of Fordyce, succeeded in Gartly by Allardyce 1837-38.

16 January 1903
Peter Grant to Gartly from Glass as blacksmith

27 February 1903
The name CURR is not endemic to Strathbogie.  It is found in Fifeshire and the Currs in Glass came to the Starhill in Cairnie from Fifeshire.  Tom Curr the Aberdeen coffee merchant in Harriet Street and Tom Curr at the cottages by the Manse of Glass, same family.

10 April 1903
Charles Smith youngest son of Jas and Mary Smith, Aswanly went to Lerwick in 1877 as a probationer Lerwick Custom House – and remained there until this date – May 1903 – when he was promoted to Liverpool.  He had risen to Chief Preventive Officer – much thought of by Lerwick on 1 May Provost Leisk presented him with a gold watch and chain, his wife got a silver tea service, kind courteous, obliging.

8 May 1903
Died at Upper Hilton, Glass Robert Robertson age 63.

19 June 1903
At Haugh of Glass 8 June Flora Norrie age 12 years deeply regretted. Flora was actually a donkey: just one of Willie McCulloch’s jokes (THE MCCULLOCH!)

3 July 1903   Died at Auchinhandoch, Glass, Geo. Gartly age 87.  He was born at Auchinhandoch, his father came from Burncruinach in 1832 and became tenant of Auchinhandoch in 1848.  Gartly was a great walker – he would walk to Tomintoul and back on a Sunday or from Glass to Banff and back on a Saturday and be at his usual place in the Established Church on the Sunday following.

24 July 1903
Alex. Leiper 2^nd son of Leiper, Cairnmore sails for Washington – he had been on railway at Inverness Station.

7 August 1903
Married at St Luke’s Parish Church, Chelsea, London 3 August by Rev A.C. Manson curate.  Elizabeth Gordon elder daughter of the late Peter Dunn and Mrs Dunn, Huntly to Donald McLeod of London late of Skye.

Old Manse Inn and Glass Established Church being altered at this date.

30 October 1903
Died at Auldyne, Glass Margaret Horn age 75 widow of late Alex. Gordon.  Death of Jas. Pirie Westfolds age 70 – had for 11 years the small farm of Burnside, Glenmarkie with Jas. Robertson, Barefolds.  He taught in that period a Sunday School that was appreciated by the young in Glenmarkie.  He went to Westfolds in 1877.

4 December 1903
Died at Corshalloch croft Peter Douglas age 87.

19 February 1904
Died at Market Hill, Glass   Jas. Littlejohn age 82

25 March 1904
Jas. Gauld of Greystonefaulds Glass for last 3 years employed as lorry driver at Clynelish Distillery, Brora leaves for USA.

1 April 1904
Glass Church opened since extension 31 March at a cost of £1400.  Galleries taken out.

29 April 1904
Died at Manse, Glass 24 April Sunday afternoon Rev Malcolm Ross age 80 of East Neuk Elgin.  HEICS of the Indian Chaplaincy, uncle of Ross of Glass.  He was tutor to the Brodie children and was often at Huntly Lodge with them during time of Duchess Elizabeth Brodie.

31 August 1904
Buffalo Bill at Huntly for one day

25 November 1904
Died at Gordonsburn 19 November Alex. Gordon, formerly of Fordlandstripe, Enzie age 68.

2 December 1904
Alex. Wilson arrived in Glass from Nova Scotia his father , late Thomas Wilson was Postmaster of Glass for many years.  He has lived in Nova Scotia for over 30 years.  This visit was at the request of Ministry of Interior to arouse interest in young people to think about emigrating to Nova Scotia.  He was at Gordon Arms Hotel for a few days – available to interview intending parties.

2 December 1904   At Glass Market 1855 – 1865 the Wilsons of the Old Manse Inn had a tent of canvas, later of wood at Glass Market where their home made bread and cheese was distributed to all and sundry.

27 January 1905
At Brownhill, Oyne, Helen Horn, widow of late William Gordon, farmer Upper Hilton, Glass age 79. (Sandy Gordon’s mother and she left the Upper Hilton along with Sandy in 1896 for Brownhills)

24 February 1905
James Perrie left the Enzie in 1872 for Canada.  Worked in Ontario for six years at farming and public works, came to Manitoba in 1878.  After working with the CPR Co. he took up homesteading the same fall.  Has remained on homestead since 1880 till present time, has now 360 acres of land with good buildings and machinery.  Land is now worth £6 an acre, has 5 horses, 10 head of cattle, pigs etc.  Was a herd laddie and ploughman in the Enzie.  Had only £1 when he landed in Canada is now worth £3000.

14 July 1905
At Torry, Glass 8 July Jane Gordon wife of late John Simon and elder daughter of late John Gordon, Innkeeper, Market Road Glass in her 64^th year.

21 July 1905
Wedding at Blairmore of Rachael Geddes to Ewen Cameron.  Among the many guests, all of Glass virtually, was Mr & Mrs W.I. Gordon and Mr & Mrs John Brian.

21 July 1905
From the Bellie Register.  John Gordon and Agnes Semmell in Braes had a lawful son John 26 February 1717.  Witnesses John Barber in Braes and John Lesly in Raphin.  This son was the father of John Gordon born 1750 died Comisty, Drumblade 29 June 1810 age 60 who was married to Elspet Fordyce.

21 July 1905
Rev. John Robertson and his wife Jessie Gordon with three of their family are buried in Gartly Churchyard.  For more on Jessie, Illegitimate daughter of 4^th Duke of Gordon, see book on the last Dukes of Gordon.

1 September 1905
Letter from a correspondent advising AGAINST emigration to Canada at present time says:- Visiting Winnipeg recently last Spring many idle, standing at every corner, hundreds of whom few who can pay for their next meal.  Reason;- the hard winters when the frost can be 6 or 8 feet down for 8 months.  Farmers cannot employ men during this period; a very bleak winter.  The writer lived in Crystal City, Manitoba.

6 October 1905
Death of Mrs Duff, Netherton, she was the second daughter of late James Gauld, Nether Dumeath Glass.  Gauld a private in the 92^nd (Gordon’s) was awarded for his bravery in May 1812 when along with a colleague Walter Somerville he swam across the Tagus under fire to secure the boats enabling the troops to cross the river during the battle for Forts Ragusa and Napoleon.  Gauld’s prominent gravestone may be seen in Wallakirk, Glass where fresh flowers regularly appear on the grave.

24 November 1905
Roup at the Torry of the effects of late Mrs Simon (sometimes spelt Symon)

9 February 1906
Death of Alex. Bonnyman, Belnaboth age 60.  He was manager to Geddes at Blairmore, married a daughter of Duff of Hillockhead.

13 April 1906
Died at Haugh of Glass on 9^th Isabella Duncan widow of late Peter Grant age 80.

23 April 1906
Contracts wanted for erection new house and shop at Broadbog, Glass.
Sir Frederick Bridge now at Cairnborrow Lodge.  He formerly took shooting at Corniecleugh, Rothiemay.

11 May 1906
Death at Corsmaul of Adam Collie age 65 and also of Matthew Snowball, Veterinary surgeon age 76, for 50 years at Huntly.  He was born at Fochabers in 1832; parents came to Huntly in 1836; father was a Yorkshire man.

25 May 1906
Peter Joss MA now on staff of Higher Grace school Douglas IOM – in Lake District before that.
Celebration at Mains of Invermarkie for James Murray, John Macconnockie and Alex Michie all going to Canada far west.

8 June 1906   Reference to Miss Jessie Patillo, Waterside, daughter of Policeman.
Letter from John Ewen, Mather, Manitoba/John Patillo. “The Scots ploughman is the man most in demand here, seems to be more trusted than those of any other country.  Fare to Canada was £5 steerage; £7 cabin.

29 June 1906
Marriage of John Aberdein to Maggie daughter of James Morrison, builder, Huntly.   Death of Alex Horn, Westerpark age 82; born Bodylair and left there in 1895 for Westerpark.

6 July 1906
Death at Midtown, Glass of Margaret Taylor age 87 daughter of late George Taylor, Bankhead, Westerpark.

28 September 1906
Death of Tom Dow, Howmill age 45 on 3 Oct 1905.

5 October 1906
Death of John Walker, Edinglassie at Dudley.

12 October 1906
Son of Thomas Watson, Aswanley injured at harvest work on farm.

14 December 1906
Marriage of Peter McGregor, Broadbog, Glass.  He was Glass Postman.  To Mary Simpson of Mid Hillside, Cairnie.

3 May 1907
Alexander Leiper, Cairnmore, Glass takes farm Baillesward in succession to Mr Robertson

31 May 1907
Died at Market Hill 29 May Jessie Baxter widow of John Wink age 78

7 June 1907
Died at Blackbog Margaret Duff wife of James Bonnyman age 80

12 July 1907
Bennet, Parkhall builds up grass dyke at the dangerous band by the Parkhall Bridge to save cyclists a nasty fall.

2 August 1907
Old Glass farmer says the Glass Market of 1846.  The crop at Mains of Cairnborrow was a grand one and was ready for the scythe – there being no reaping machines or binders then – at the Market date.  Same year the tattie crop gaed a vrang and was so for several years.

6 September 1907
Alexander Wilson, Pugwash Nova Scotia in Glass this year.    Died at Market Hill William Souter, mason age 73, his wife was a daughter of late Mr Robertson.

13 September 1907
Poem on Wallakirk

“O lovely, well beloved kirk-yard
Where my last bed should be
I fain would say a solemn song
A requiem over thee
Strange mystic spot, the resting place
And goal of every age
Where Death o’erturned and Time blots out
Life’s complicated page.”

20 September 1907
Death of Mrs Ingram age 93 widow of Rev. W. Ingram, Rothiemay Free Church at Westerly Villa, Huntly

11 October 1907
Alexander Robertson writes from Edinburgh on need for a memorial to James Gauld, Peninsular War.

1 November 1907
Death at Whitehall, Pembroke at home of his daughter of Lt. Col. George Symon, Army Medical Services.  Born at the Torry. MD Kings College 1859: MRCS Edinburgh 1858: Formerly in 32^nd Foot and Royal Artillery.  From 1884-85 was in charge of Barracks at Bradford.  Lichfield Mercury has account of death.

29 November 1907
An At Home at Roselea by Peter McGregor.   November days are drear and cold – All nature seeks its winter fold.

20 December 1907
Died at Greens of Glenbeg James McWilliam age 70 late of Huntly.

3 January 1908
Promotion for Charles Smith – late Preventive Officer, Upper Section Liverpool now Chief Preventive Officer London.  Received gift of Roll Top Desk from the Department Liverpool 19 October 1907 by the Waterguard Staff.

17 January 1908
Death at Huntly of William Shearer age 73. Born Glass 4 May 1835.  Went to Huntly 1867 to work on roads trustees.  Retired Road Surveyor.

20 March 1908
Rev. Alexander Allardyce married Miss McWilliam daughter of John McWilliam of Beldorney.  He was born Huntly 1818 – tenant at Tullochbeg.  His widow was in San Francisco during 1906 earthquake.

27 March 1908
The Electrophone installed in Glass Established Church, can hear organ and service in the Manse.   Unique in the Church.  National Telephone Co. installed.

10 April 1908
At Old Manse, Glass Jane Day wife of Alexander Innes age 58.

17 April 1908
Died at Barefolds, Glass John Robertson age 55

4 September 1908
Died at Broadbog Helen McGregor 2^nd daughter of Alexander McGregor, Tailor age 32.

16 October 1908
At Greystonefaulds Rosaline Helen daughter of Mr & Mrs McCurrach age 12 weeks.

16 October 1908
Died at Mains of Cairnborrow William Robertson age 74, he came from Bonfail 6 or 7 years ago (1902) where he was for a number of years; has son William with him.

11 December 1908
Death of Sir Ewen Cameron, London manager of Hong Kong Shanghai Bank age 66.  Son of well-known Highland farmer son married Rachael Geddes.

8 January 1909
Fire at John Jamieson, Chapelhill, Glass.  The thatched cottage built over 50 years ago war burned to ground – large family.

15 January 1909
In 1845 the farmers slush with cash on account of high grain prices gave ball at Hall in Granary St. Huntly.  Someone entered the Gas Works and turned off the gas leaving the dancers in darkness, never knew who it was.

22 January 1909
Died early on Wednesday 20 January at Grays Hospital Elgin after a brief illness, Charles Gordon MA age 74.  Schoolmaster at Cullen. Minister Seafield of Portknockie then St Andrews Lhanbryde on death of Rev. Charles Davidson.

5 February 1909
Died at Little Gouls, Glass John Taylor age 69.   Died at Bodylair Margaret Robson, wife of late John Robson age 80.  Taylor was a brother of Mrs Robertson, Cairnborrow.  Little Gouls has been in Taylor hands for over 100 years.  He had Ardmallie, Marnoch for 6 years, returned to Gouls in 1882.  He married in 1869 Mary Robertson of Wester Boghead.

2 April 1909
Mr A. Wilson, Pugwash, Nova Scotia appointed a Commissioner of the Supreme Court.

28 May 1909
Full list of places in USA and Canada having name of Gordon.

23 July 1909
Golden Wedding of George Walker, Blackhillock, Corsmaul.

3 September 1909
David Wood MA dies on Boghead Brae, travelling with two friends he was second cyclist and struck cart – died instantly age 49 at 5.30 pm – cart of timber.   Had left Market Inn shortly before with a good drink.

8 October 1909
Death at 40 Old Road, Huntly, James Gray age 80 late of Waterside, Glass.

15 October 1909
William Shand, Assistant at Academy Broughty Ferry appointed to Glass.

26 November 1909
William Shand appointed Inspector of Poor for Glass at £30 per annum.  James Gordon as gravedigger at £10.

3 December 1909
Died at Wester Boghead, Elizabeth Robertson age 85.

12 May 1910
Roup at Aswanly – effects of late Thomas Watson.   John Aberdein, an agent  sold Raleigh  cycles at the Haugh.

13 May 1910
Mr Pirie overseer at Invermarkie left the district.  Presentation and speech by Peter Grant, Market Hill (husband of Old Annie) James Duff, Boghead presented gifts.

27 May 1910
Glass bus leaves Haugh daily at 7.25 am arrives Huntly in time for 8.46 train to Aberdeen.  Returns from Square 3.45.  James Duncan Proprietor, Haugh.

1 July 1910
Free Church outing in 2 brakes headed by a piper to Tugnet by way of Dufftown.  20 – 30 persons.

9 September 1910
James Gauld son of Gauld, Greystonefaulds had a farm in Montana at Cut Bank.

9 September 1910
Cairnford Bridge opened after major construction.

16 September 1910
Death of Mrs Grant late Beldorney at Banff.

25 October 1910
Death of Helen Dow age 30 wife of James Morrison, Parkhead, ill only a few days.

11 November 1910
Coats of Paisley gave Glass school bags.

9 December 1910
William Robertson late of Boghead, died at home of his sister, Market Hill Cottage, Glass age 75.  He went to Boghead in May 1861 and left it in 1909.  He was unmarried.  His twin brother is farmer at The Ward.  Brother of the Couper.

12 December 1910
Death at Castle Park, Huntly of John Wilson age 74.  In 1860 he succeeded McPherson of Gibston as Factor to the Duke of Richmond and Gordon.

24 December 1910
Died at Burnside, Kennethmont Isabella Cooper wife of Robert Cooper, farmer.

17 February 1911
Died at Huntly Hospital Peter Grant age 56 husband of “Old Annie”.

17 February 1911
Article taken from Kirkcudbright Advertiser.  A correspondent – native of Glass writes. “We have had fresh dry winds the whole week.  On Wednesday and Thursday those having stooks still standing out were busy gathering them in, so we may say harvest is finished.  Unfortunately, there was only one farmer in this parish who had the unpleasant task to perform, but he had several acres; and the lower end of Mortlach, or I may say, close to the border of Glass, a farmer there had close on 15 quarters sowing, or nearly half his crop.  It is needless to say that it is useless for man or beast, except that in summer it may serve as litter. (Glass 1 Feb. 1861)

10 March 1911
Miss Taylor of Keith, organist at Glass Established Church leaves for America to be married.

31 March 1911
Wester Corrie, Glass for long tenanted by John Duncan, Glass has been let to James Duff, Slogan, Glass.   William Duncan has taken Corskie, Aberchirder.

14 April 1911
Miss McGregor, Hardhaugh, Dufftown appointed Glass organist.

21 April 1911
At Brandon, Manitoba 4 April John R. Milne, Virden, late of Mayen, Rothiemay to Elizabeth Margaret youngest daughter of Robertson, Greystone.

5 May 1911
A. Wilson, Pugwash, Nova Scotia appointed Stipendiary Magistrate of Cumberland County, Nova Scotia is to visit Glass soon.   Robin Hood cycles at this time cost £13.13 to £7.7.

9 June 1911
Mr Kessler arrives Invermarkie Lodge.   Death of John Gordon age 69 – the Post.

9 July 1911
At schoolhouse Glass a daughter.   At Gouls, Glass a son still born to John and  Mrs Taylor.   Glass Market now only one day.

28 July 1911
After an absence of many years Raphael Gordon takes up residence at Wardhouse.   In past days the arrival of the Wardhouse party at St Margaret’s Chapel Huntly was an event of the day.   All the family were horsey and five barred gates were only laughed at and jumped over by skilled horsewomen.

29 September 1911
At 117 Peter Street, Port Arthur, Ontario on 30 August by Rev Norman McKenzie, Presbyterian Church (brother of the bride) John Gordon, Winnipeg, eldest son of William Irvine Gordon, merchant, Glass to Grace Magdalen youngest daughter of Donald McKenzie, Port Arthur.

20 October 1911
Thomas Mitchell from Blackburn succeeds Pattillo as Police Constable in Glass.

2 February 1912
Death in Egypt of Duke of Fife.  Born 1845 succeeded to his father as Earl of Fife in 1879 was created a Duke of the UK in 1889 the year of his marriage to the Princess Royal, eldest daughter of the Prince of Wales (Edward 7^th).  The Fifes sprung from Adam Duff who flourished during the Grand Rebellion and though a strong supporter of the Stuarts he amassed considerable wealth.  When he had spare cash he steadily invested in land when in 1718 William Duff who succeeded then was able to boast that he had a rental of £6500 a year, in those days the largest fortune in the North-East.  The Duke who died owned 249.220 acres from which he derived an income of over £72.000 a year.  He owned land in Aberdeenshire of 135.829 acres; Banffshire 72.432; Elginshire 40.959 but no land in Fife.

9 February 1912
Wm Murray head gamekeeper at Invermarkie leaves for Buchromb

23 February 1912
At Huntly Hospital 10 February James Innes age 20 years of Market Hill, Glass.

20 April 1912
An accident between a motor car belonging to Dr. J.O. Wilson, Huntly and 2 motor cycles near Deveron Bridge.

10 May 1912
Died at Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen Margaret Mitchell age 42 wife of Cumming Duff, Nether Hilton, Glass.

24 May 1912
At Nether Dumeath, Glass 19 May Mary McIntosh age 74 wife of George Gauld.

2 August 1912
Died at Huntly Agnes Wans wife of James Robertson, farmer Ittingstone; daughter of late Wm Wans of Belnaboth, Glass.  Wm Wans succeeded in Belnaboth by his son in law who a few years ago, removed to Ittingstone.

27 September 1912
Call to Rev John Niven MA Perth by Glass Free Church.  He was ordained 10 October.

18 October 1912
At Winnipeg, Canada Alexander 6^th son of Duncan McDonald, Market Hill, Glass, he was 29 years.

6 December 1912
Death of Alex Fletcher age 73 (Born 1839) at Drumnahoy, Cluny.  A native of Towie he was as a young man appointed head keeper at Glenmarkie under Mr J. Burra, when Burra bought the estate of Glenbuchat he took with him his keeper.  Fletcher later farmed Mains of Glenbuchat.

20 December 1912
The hot dinners have been commenced at Glass School – they were a great boon to scholars.

7 February 1913
Death at Bournemouth of Rev D.M. Ross of Glass, He was not in good health and it was thought that a warmer climate might help him and he went to Bournemouth with his eldest sister Miss J.A. Ross.  Survived by 3 sisters, one an invalid, one Mrs Simpson wife of Commander Simpson of Dalhousie, Huntly.  Born Kintore 22 July 1852 unmarried.  Buried at Wallakirk.

21 February 1913
Death at Corsmaul of John Fettes age 91 oldest man in Glass.  Lived all his life at Corsmaul.

28 February 1913
Social Meeting at Free Church, Glass among the performers was Miss Edith Gordon, Mary Duff and Bessie Robertson

5 April 1913
Death of Alex Robertson, Greystone age 81 (The Couper).  When he rented Greystone it was a grazing farm an offshoot of Parkhall on the Cairnborrow Estate owned by Duke of Fife.  There was not a house on the farm and very little of land in cultivation.  He built an excellent farm steading, made a good road and broke up pasture and moorland to make a productive farm.  Later the land was bought by Geddes.  He was for 30 years an elder of the Established Church.  He married another well-known Glass family in the daughter of John Gordon, Inn Keeper, Market Road.  In olden days it was said that the Kirkyard of Glass was mainly filled with GAULDS and ROBERTSONS.  The flight of time has largely reduced the GAULDS but the ROBERTSONS are still numerous in the parish.

23 May 1913
A presentation at the Haugh to Mrs Aberdein who is leaving Glass after 50 years, to live in Aboyne.  Her son John is to carry on the Haugh.

6 June 1913   Rev W.G. Guthrie appointed to Glass:  Votes Guthrie  115:  Rev A.F. Black, Aberdeen 39: Rev A. McPherson, Edinburgh 31.
Guthrie was first a schoolmaster at Leochel Cushnie, then to Divinity and assistant at John Knox, Mounthooly, Aberdeen for 16 months, then to Logie Buchan where he was 12 ½ years.

6 July 1913
Died at Upper Hilton Isabella Meldrum widow of Robert Robertson, farmer Upper Hilton

18 July 1913
Died at Chapelhill, Glass Margaret McCulloch age 60 years wife of Peter Wilson.

12 September 1913
Died at Little Hillockhead Jane Robertson age 87 widow of Wm Craig, Lettoch.

21 October 1913
As John Robertson, carter Glass, Coal Jock was on his way to Huntly,  just below the Parkhall Bridge he came on Maggie Pirie from Keith lying unconscious on ground beside her cycle.  She was employed at Invermarkie to assist the housekeeper and had been sent to Huntly on a message.  Recovered well.  A bad corner.

28 November 1913
At Gouls a son John to John Taylor.

December 1913
Pictures at Huntly Palace this date.

30 January 1914
Died at Bodilair, Glass 26 January 1914 John Robson age 60.

27 February 1914
Died at Midtown, Glass 19 February Jas Taylor age 89.  Born at the small holding of Bankhead now incorporated and for with Westerpark in 1825, he married as a young man and settled at Quarryhead.  At that time Quarryhead consisted of about 20 acres arable – this was about 1864 – and when he left it – say in 1899 – it was 44 acres and made entirely by the efforts of himself and family.  The late Alex Geddes being anxious to obtain a holding as a sheep run for Invermarkie offered Taylor the fine farm of Midtown a fair place.   It was accepted and for the last 15 years he and his family have successfully farmed there.  A Free Church elder for 50 years he taught in the Sunday School both at the church and at Broadbog – this for 45 years.

3 April 1914
Studebaker cars for sale at £245 in Huntly

24 April 1914
Miss Coutts resigns from Glass School she has been here for 7 years and leaves for Canada to marry Geo Robertson.

8 May 1914
At Aswanly died the son of Robert and Elizabeth Robertson maiden name Bennett – a son 11 months.

21 August 1914
An article on Rev Mr Gordon on leaving Pluscarden to come to Westerly Villa, Huntly.

4 September 1914
Died at Boghead, Glass 28 August Thomas Duff age 74.

18 September 1914
Died at Hillockhead, Glass Helen Sutherland age 47 wife of John Wink.

16 October 1914
Presentation to Jas Lamb who was Postman between Glass and Huntly for 13 years.    A Party from Glass came in a closed bus – horse?

27 November 1914
The new road from opposite Alnaboyle, Auchindoun to Glenmarkie opened now by Geo Cowie Grant, the main sponsor, it cuts the distance between Dufftown and Glenmarkie by 4 miles even though it is only one mile long.

5 March 1915
Letter from BATTY GREEN of 2^nd Scots Guards son of Mrs Green, The Burn, Glenmarkie, from POW Camp at Ohrdurf, Saxony.  “Lay for 11 hours wounded in face.  400 of our battalion killed in one day”

26 March 1915
GEO DOW, Lowrie age 18 killed 6^th Gordons.

30 April 1915
Death of CAPT JOHN GEDDES with 16^th Battalion Canadian Infantry.  Born Chicago 1878 he was 7 years in business in Chicago then to Winnipeg.  Was a member of Grain Exchange and other interests.  Was with 79^th Cameron Highlanders of Canada.  Wife was Helen Tillie.

2 May 1915
Presentation to Bennett of Parkhall.  Had been 44 years tenant.

4 June 1915
At the Grace Dart Home, Montreal, Canada on 27^th May 1915 James third son of Mr & Mrs W.I. Gordon, Market Road, Glass aged 22 years.

25 June 1915
Killed with RSF LT. ALISTER GEDDES age 23.  Had business interests in Winnipeg and British Columbia – Lairds son.

5 November 1915
Rev John Niven leaves Glass Free for Holborn UF Church, Aberdeen.

12 November 1915
Dr Ogg came to Huntly from Rothes at this time.

12 November 1915
At Balfreish, Croy 8^th November Wm Archibald age 82.

21 January 1916
More on BATTY GREEN wounded on the cheek 26^th October 1914. 2^nd Scots Guards

28 January 1916
Death of Alex Stevenson, Blairshinnoch – he bought Cairnborrow from Duke of Fife about 1880.  He was 85 and spent his early tears in Mexico.

25 February 1916
Rev. A. Kerr of Enzie elected to Glass Free Church – he later on 24^th March declined the call.

24 March 1916
At Huntly Military Tribunal.  John Sim Robertson and Alex Robertson joint tenants of Barefolds asked for exemption.

31 March 1916
Died at Sunnybrae, Glass 26 March Alex Dey age 84 late of the Midtown, Glass.

14 April 1916
Jas Robertson refused exemption; his brother John appealed.  Farm of 126 acres; 35 cattle; 6 horses; 15 breeding ewes; late hilly district; another brother Charles got exempted.

19 March 1916
Appeal Tribunal.  Jas Robertson, Greystone was refused exemption.  The doctor found Charles Robertson ploughing and quite fit for agricultural work; Charles would not go to the house to be examined and the doctor had to examine him in the field; brother John had said Charlie was fit to work only occasionally; appeal dismissed.

16 June 1916
Died at Roselea, Market Road, Glass Alex McGregor, tailor age 84.

30 June 1916
Wedding at Wester Corrie, Botriphnie of Alex Wink son of Alex Wink, Hillockhead and Lizzie Duncan Duff 2^nddaughter of Jas Duff, Corrie.

14 July 1916
Tribunal at Huntly.  W. Gauld of Auldyne, Glass makes some unlikely excuses for his sons.

Capt. Medhurst (the Military Representative) “You will have another son leaving school who can assist you”
Gauld  “”Yes, but he’s not much with a horse yet”
Medhurst “Have you any daughters at home?”
Gauld “Yes, but what can I do when harvest comes”
Medhurst “I will try and get assistance for you”
Gauld “I would like to have my son for some time longer”
Medhurst “Naturally, but we cannot put back the war a year for you to keep your son at home”
Gauld “It is sad to bring up a son and not get the good of him”
Medhurst “Yes, there are thousands of cases like you, you have only 45 acres and a boy coming up and the chance of female assistance.  You are far better off than a lot of people”
Gauld “Aye, but the war would go on a long time yet”
Medhurst “Yes, and the sooner your son gets trained the better.  He may just make the difference.  It’s the last straw that breaks the camel’s back.  I will not call him up till 15 August”

28 July 1916
Call to Rev A.G. Murdoch of Gallowgate Free Church, Glasgow to Glass Free.

11 August 1916
Alex Wink at Market Road now.

1 September 1916
BATTY GREEN transferred from POW to Murren in the Berness Oberland.

9 February 1917
Charlie Robertson of Bodilair granted exemption if he joined the volunteers.

19 October 1917
GUNNER GEORGE MILNE wounded; dangerously in France.  This was Geordie Milne the gamekeeper and he was then 34.     Donald McDonald, Market Hill, Glass had by this time lost two sons killed and one wounded in action.

9 November 1917
Old Manse let to Geo Taylor from Ythanwells.  Corshalloch let to Wm. Taylor, Hillside, Cairnie.

25 January 1918
Son of Rev Mr Murdoch, Free Kirk Glass wounded; he was a Lieut. But had the MM; probably awarded earlier.

8 February 1918
LT. JAMES BONNYMAN MM of Belnaboth in the Machine Gun Corps (photo of him receiving the MM.  This puts to flight the report that he was in the Scots Guards.  MM is given to NCO’S and Privates.

5 April 1918
JAMES WINK slightly wounded in France.  Miss Morrison leaves Glass for Glenfoudland School.

12 April 1918
Death of CPL. ALEX GAULD MM of Bonfail – in France

19 April 1918
Died at Market Road, Glass Margaret Dingwall, age 90 widow of John Morrison.

31 May 1918
Died at Blackbog, James Bonnyman age 81 retired farmer.

12 July 1918
John Yule of AB Yule in Stock Exchange, London.  In 1915 he leased Huntly Lodge after Col. Cumberland left.

2 August 1918
Killed in France, near Bethune, while serving with the 2^nd Batt. Seaforth Highlanders, JAS. ROBERTSON, Graystone.

6 September 1918
Killed in France, at Buzancy, PTE. GEORGE DUNCAN age 19 son of George Duncan in Dallachy.

20 September 1918
Killed in France 29 August while serving with the 1^st Batt. The London Scottish ALEX INNES, Old Manse, Glass son of the late Jas Innes, Old Manse and Mrs Innes, Glasgow.

18 October 1918
Died of wounds at CCS 6 October ROUALEYN, Highland Light Infantry, age 25 son of Jas Smith, the Haugh, Glass; a brother of “Smithy”.  He was employed as a chauffeur by Dr Wilson, Huntly and had previously driven the Glass-Huntly bus.

14 March 1919
Died at Wester Bodilair, Glass on 11 March John Souter, farmer there; wife was Janet McDonald.  He was aged 49 and the eldest son of the late Wm Souter, Market Hill.

21 March 1919
Died at Hillockhead, Glass Wm Craig age 74 the eldest son of the late Wm Craig, Lettoch, Glass.

16 May 1919
Donald McDonald, Market Hill retires after 31 years (1888) as compulsory officer for Glass School; Sandy Dey followed.

30 May 1919
Sandy Gordon, Lilydale, Insch formerly of Brownhill, Oyne has bought Old Wragham of 80 acres from Mr Bucksley.

27 June 1919
Constable Thos Mitchell, Glass Police retires after being eight years at Glass.

5 September 1919
Died at Auldyne Croft, Sgt. Jas Gordon age 71.

22 August 1919
Died at the home of her sister Mrs Innes 6  Cromwell Square, Glasgow, Jane Gauld second daughter of the late James Gauld, farmer, Little Hillockhead, Glass.

30 October 1919
Wedding of Mabel Guthrie to Rev Mr Masson, Minister of Slains, at the Manse Glass.

30 October 1919
Died at Corsmaul John Anderson age 83.  Beldorney Estate of 3500 acres bought by Sir Thomas Birkett, Sheriff of Bombay and of the firm of Killock, Nixon & Co. also Lady Birkett.

5 December 1919
Roup at Beldorney Castle last of the Grants there.

20 February 1920
Died at 21 Old Road, Huntly Jas Robertson age 78 of Ittingstone.  Came to Ittingstone say 1900 from Belnaboth.  With brothers Alex  Greystone and the Ward were noted cattle dealers – always had a drove or two for sale.

June 1920
Davidson now at Huntly Lodge.  Motor tractors by K.H. Gambles working at Gibston, Huntly.

2 July 1920
Roselea, Glass, purchased for conversion into accommodation for road workmen in the district.

16 July 1920
Mr James retires as Rector of Gordon Schools.  Came in 1890.

August 1920
Ford cars cost £250 at Fitzpatrick, Huntly.  Speed limit for cars in Huntly was 10 mph.  A man was fined one pound.  Fordson tractors for sale Huntly £260.

January 1920
Glas War Memorial.  There were six suggested sites.

1 Boghead Brae; 2 Market Road 3 At the Parish Church 4 On the Glebe 5 At the Haugh 6 At Wallakirk

The Haugh was the majority verdict.

5 November 1920
Died at 61 Church St. Huntly 1 November Jas Gordon late Gas Manager and coal merchant Cullen.

26 November 1920
Death of John Fitzpatrick age 63 came from Carlon, Ireland in 1878 garage man, Huntly

21 January 1921
Sir Frederick Bridge presiding at a lecture of the London Musical Association the other day said modern music had gone beyond him.  If he knew he were to hear something good he would go to a concert, but he refused to pay half a guinea for being annoyed.  In the old days he could sit in his arm chair – perhaps with a cigar – and thoroughly enjoy reading the score of some music, but he could not read modern music.

21 January 1921
Case before the Aberdeen Sheriff Court of Jeannie Forbes or Bonner, Cromwellside, Old Rayne against her husband James Bonner, farmer Piketillum, Glass.  She asked for alimony because of the brutality of her husband.  They had married in 1901.

February 1921   John Fitzpatrick & Sons, Huntly advertised for sale the Ford Motor car at a price ex works of £240.  The dimensions were as follows;-

Length – 12’ 3”
Width – 5’ 6”
Height with hood down – 5’ 3”
With hood up 7’ 0”

Ford coupe £225
Ford sedan £424

This was the famous “tin Lizzie” – Coupe was the tin lizzie

4 February 1921
A ploughing match took place on Saturday 29 January at Aswanly, Glass (Mr Robertson).  The weather was drizzly in the early morning but it did not deter the large turnout of 28 competitors.  By mid-day the weather cleared and a large number of spectators attended.  Jas Duff of Boghead had several firsts. W. Gauld of Oldyne also figured in the prize list.

4 February 1921
The Petter junior oil engine was sold by Donald, engineer, Nelson St. Huntly at this time.

4 February 1921
Exceptionally fine weather enabled the farm work to proceed.

4 March 1921
The engagement of Commander Clive Pinsent R.N. 2^nd son of Mr & Mrs R.A. Pinsent of Sellby, Wick, near Birmingham to Kathleen Jane only daughter of Mr & Mrs George Macpherson of the Lloyd House, Penn near Wolverton and Edinglassie Lodge, Glass.

11 March 1921
At East Bodylair, Glass on 10 March Betty Gordon wife of the late Alex Robertson, Glass age 76 years.  Funeral on Monday 14 March at 1 pm to Glass Churchyard.

11 March 1921
Death of Mrs Jas Bennet (at Aberchirder) late of Parkhall, Glass.  Survived by son at Parkhall and another who is manager of the Iowa Rending Co. Sioux City.

18 March 1921
Died at West Bodylair, Glass on 11 March 1919  John Souter farmer there (A memoriam)

18 March 1921
Oat sowing in the Cabrach despite the recent snowstorm.

25 March 1921
Reference to Dufftown and its foundation in 1817.

1 April 1921   Cabrach
Peter Jopp lately headmaster of the North Wall Public School has been appointed to a similar post under the Argyle Education Authority.

1 April 1921
Reference to total number of deaths of men serving in battalions of the Gordons in World War 1.  The total killed was 8495 this did not include officers.

8 April 1921
Major McKenzie Wood MP during a visit to Strathbogie closed his tour by a meeting at the Central School, Glass onThursday 7 April.  Jas Taylor of the Midtown was the Chairman.  A good gathering.

8 April 1921
At Huntly Feeing Market 7 April. 1^st Horsemen get from £80 – £85 2^nd Horsemen £80 – £83 and 3^rd Horsemen £77 – £80 all including the usual perquisites.

15 April 1921
Last Friday 8 April there was an eclipse of the sun.  Many looked through smoked glass.

22 April 1921
At Terryhorn, Glass 21 April Wm. Mitchell retired farmer age 74 formerly of America son of late Alex Mitchell, Piketillum.  To Glass Churchyard.

29 April 1921
Bostock & Wombwells Menagerie at the Market Muir, Huntly.

6 May 1921
On Monday 1 May the weather changed from summer to winter conditions with snow showers, hail and rain.

13 May 1921
At Balfreish, Croy, Gollanfield, Nairnshire 5 May Isabella Archibald eldest daughter of late John Archibald, Succoth Glass age 91 years.

20 May 1921
Death at Meadow St. Huntly of Mary Gray  LIA.

27 May 1921
At St Anne’s, Huntly on 25 May Eliza Robertson, for 40 years faithful & loved maid & friend to the Misses Ross.  Buried at Huntly

10 June 1921
Full account of the unveiling of GLASS WAR MEMORIAL.

8 July 1921
Unemployment.  A reduction in the figures but still high

Aberdeen  11.780
Huntly  51
Keith  70
Dufftown  10

13 July 1921
A letter to the Clerk of Huntly District Committee from E. Allan Cameron, Blairmore, Glass.

“I feel that the present deplorable state of the Huntly, Glass, Cabrach road and indeed all the roads in Glass Parish must be of concern to yourselves as it is to all users of the roads.  During the war we were content to suffer in silence and watch the roads being daily destroyed by timber hauling and neglect, but the armistice is now 3 years old and our roads go from bad to worse and are positively dangerous for night driving.   Will they ever be restored?  Labour must surely be plentiful during the existing disastrous conditions of employment.  All that seems to be done is a little clearing of the ditches and a little throwing of loose earth into the craters on the roads, but any attempt to reconstruct the surface none whatever.  Heaps of metal lying along the sides of the roads seem to indicate that work may be about to proceed.  The coal strike is now over and possibly the road roller can once more function”.

22 July 1921   Letter from E. Kessler, Invermarkie Lodge, Glass

“Mr Cameron’s letter was more than justified.  The road from Glass to Huntly has a bad reputation, the ruts about two inches deep caused by hauling timber on a section of the road between the Manse of Glass and the Haugh which caused Mr Guthrie’s accident are still in sight.  Other bicyclists have come to grief there.  Motor cars have to go slow all the way to Huntly to mitigate the danger to their springs.  It is a puzzle to know why Banffshire should have much better upkeep of roads than Aberdeenshire.”

22 July 1921
A letter from James Macbeth, Aberdeen estimating the cost of repairing the Glass School piano at £25 was read.  In view of the large amount the Committee resolved to remit the matter to the Education Authority to deal with.

4 April 1921
A daily postal service by motor brake was introduced between Huntly, Glass and the Cabrach in 1921.  The contract was awarded to John Aberdein, merchant at the Haugh, Glass.  It commenced on Monday 30 May 1921.  The brake left Glass at 7 am and 2.30 pm each day.

29 July 1921
Glass Market was held on Tuesday 26 July in fine weather.  It was only a shadow of its former self with a small attendance of the public.  Only about 60 horses were shown and trade was dull.  Prices £35. £50 and in extreme cases £60.  Inferior £20 – £30; aged beasts and small ponies £10-£20.  Few dealers Robert Symon, Huntly Geo & Isaac Williamson, Keith.  Before the advent of auction marts this was a horse, cattle and sheep market of considerable size and importance.  Originally it consisted of 3 days.  One for sheep, one for cattle and one for horses.  Gradually it was confined to two days and lately to one day.

5 August 1921
At the Gordon Arms Temperance Hotel, Huntly 3 August Thomas Duff to Jean Watt eldest daughter of Mr & Mrs Morrison, Torry, Glass.

5 August 1921
Death of Cosmo Gordon-Lennox at Narlow eldest son of Lord Alex Gordon-Lennox and grandson of the 5^th Duke of Richmond.  He was born in 1869.

19 August, 1921
On Wednesday 17 August Bostock’s Circus was at the Market Muir Huntly and gave two performances one in the afternoon and one in the evening.

2 September 1921
On Saturday 27 August Rev W.G. Guthrie entertained the children of Glass and Beldorney Sunday Schools to their annual picnic within the Manse grounds.  The Beldorney children were conveyed in carts to the Manse through the kindness of farmers in the neighbourhood.  The weather was fine, a pleasant change from the rainstorm that swept the district the previous night (Friday).  The children entered into the outdoor games with gusto.

9 September 1921
Huntly District Roads Committee.  Mrs Kessler of Invermarkie Lodge claimed compensation for damage done to her cycle through an accident caused by the bad roads in Glass, which have been described as the worst in Scotland.

16 September 1921
On Sunday afternoon 11 September an organ recital was given by Sir Frederick Bridge CVO Emeritus Organist of Westminster Abbey, and Deputy organist of Glass Church (Established).  There was a large gathering and outside the church some 30 or more motor cars were garaged and many motor cycles.

14 October 1921
The question of a reduction in roadmen’s wages came before the Roads Committee Board in Aberdeen yesterday.

11 November 1921
Unemployment in Aberdeen was 2652 and in Huntly 32.

18 November 1921
Death of George Gauld of 40 Nelson St. Huntly.  He was born in Glass 68 years ago (1852) and was a descendant of the Gaulds of Edinglassie.  His father served in the Peninsular War.

December 1921
Lord Mount Stephen died during this month.

30 December 1921
The Duke of Richmond & Gordon was 76 on Tuesday.  He succeeded his father 18 years ago (1903).  The late Duke lived to 85 (died 1903)

30 December 1921
Through the kindness of Lady Birkett, Beldorney, Mrs Cameron, Blairmore and Mrs Kessler of Invermarkie Lodge, the scholars of Glass and Beldorney Schools were entertained to a Christmas Tree on Monday 26 December.  The pupils met at Glass Central School at 4pm and were served with tea in one of the rooms, after which the sliding doors were thrown open and the children were delighted to see the gaily decorated tree with a multitude of gifts.  They then marched one by one round the tree each receiving a valuable gift, a bag of sweets, an orange and a cracker.  All then went outside to the playground and enjoyed a display of fireworks, rockets etc.

3 February 1922
Died at Nairn Mrs Gordon widow of General Wm R. Gordon.  He was one of the Gordon’s of Croughty near Tomintoul.  Joined the Bengal Army in 1845. Died 1893.  She was a sister of Mrs Geddes of Invermarkie, Glass.

10 February 1922
The printers of Elgin have accepted their masters offer of 1/6 per hour; a decrease of 5 pence an hour.

17 February 1922   Concert held at the Central School, Glass on Friday 10 February in aid of funds for the proposed public hall.  Rev Mr Guthrie presided.  A full attendance. Prices 2/4 – 1/3.  A dance followed Gents 1/- Ladies 6  pence.  £5.15 was collected.

3 March 1922
Rev Robert Troup of Huntly Congregational was the father of Miss Troup, Howglen, Gladstone Road, Huntly and also of Sir Edward Troup, Permanent Under Secretary in the Home Office.  He was born in 1857 and retired in March 1922.  His wife was the youngest daughter of George Macdonald the Huntly novelist. R.G. Troup of the Farm, Huntly was another son.

31 March 1922
Motor cars could be hired in Huntly at 9 pence per mile; but not presumably self-drive.

31 March 1922
Letter from Peter Jopp of 55 Rose Street, Aberdeen on the lapwing. (Vanellus Christitus) Dukitath (Heb) It figures in Deut. 14-18 and Lev. 11-19 and was considered unclean.  “The lapwing’s cry brings Spring to view”

31 March 1922
Gen. Sir Edmund Ironside’s grandfather was tenant of Earlsfield, Kennethmont and his great grandfather was tenant of Brindy in 1760.

28 April 1922   Mail coach left J. Aberdein, Haugh, Glass at 7.15 am and at 2.30 for Huntly with passengers.

19 May 1922
First word of selling came in a letter from Gordon Castle, Fochabers 11 May saying that the Duke of Richmond & Gordon was selling all his lands in the parishes of Huntly, Rhynie, Cairnie, Gartly and Kennethmont because of heavy taxation.  He however gave the sitting tenants the privilege to buy their farms.  Davidson & Garden, advocates Aberdeen were the agents.  Huntly Lodge was not for sale at present as it is let on a lease to Mr L.F.W. Davidson, late of York House, Cullen, but it will be sold on the expiry of the lease.  The lands total about 60,000 acres and are valued at £500,000.  The Earl of March who succeeded his uncle the 5^th Duke of Gordon was Charles, 5^th Duke of Richmond  & Lennox, he assumed the surname of Gordon and his elder son was created Duke of Richmond & Gordon in 1876 and on his death in 1903 the estates passed to his eldest son the present 7^th Duke of Richmond & Gordon.

19 May 1922
A motor accident occurred near the Old Manse, Glass on Wednesday night 17 May.  The party including 36 NCO’s and men of the Gordon Highlanders were returning from Dufftown to Aberdeen.  The mishap took place on the Huntly-Dufftown road and due to the greasy nature of the road, the bus, a heavy Aberdeen Corporation omnibus left the road and toppled over a bridge into a burn.  Practically all the members of the party sustained cuts and bruises but six of them were more seriously hurt.  Among them was Drum Major Kenny VC who had been transferred temporarily from the 2^nd Batt. Gordon’s at Fort George to the Aberdeen Depot for duty.  In taking the corner the driver took a wide lock, when the rear of the bus started to slide and crashed head on to the bridge.  The stone work for six yards was knocked clean over and the bus plunged through the gap into the burn below – a drop of eight feet.

26 May 1922
Huntly Feeing Market.  1^st horseman £30-£32: 2^nd horseman £27-£29; 3^rd horseman £22-£25: Boys £9- £10: Head cattleman £28-£30: 2^nd cattleman £24-£26

The wages showed a decrease of about £5 on the last six months wages.

23 June 1922
At Greystonefaulds, Glass on 19 June Jane Gauld age 64 wife of James Gauld.  After an illness of five months.  Funeral to Wallakirk.

30 June 1922
Good class bicycles new cost £9.17.6d. and lesser makes at £8.

30 June 1922
On Tuesday 4 July Bronco Bills Circus appeared at the Market Muir, Huntly for one day.  Admission adults 4/9 to 1/3 and children 2/4 to 9 pence. 7

7 July 1922
Peter Jopp schoolmaster has presented the Cabrach Church with 30 Bibles.  We understand that Mr Jopp has recently acquired one of the largest and most comprehensive libraries in the North.    Something like a traction engine load of tomes will shortly find their way home in the Cabrach heights.

21 July 1922
Death on 20 July at Hilton Croft, Glass of John Robertson age 70.  (Pig or Coal Jock).  His daughter later married Alex. Robertson, Mains of Aswanly.

28 July 1922
The annual Glass Market was held in miniature fashion on Thursday 25 July on the Market Hill.  Only seven horses were stanced and of these only one was sold.  The attendance of farmers and others was very small.  It is rumoured that another, presumably more suitable day may be advertised for holding the market but it appears that Auction Marts have killed this once famous market which in former times covered three days; one for sheep; one for cattle and one for horses, but more recently all were out in one day.  This was the last Glass Market and it had stalls of “Cheap Johns” and sales of “plunky” etc.

4 August 1922
Death at the Haugh, Glass of John Aberdein

8 September 1922
Married at Glass Church 5 September Philip Lawrence to Elizabeth Paton Gloag youngest daughter of the Rev William Guthrie, Minister of Glass.

15 December 1922
The 4^th Duke of Gordon won a pewter plate in 1761 at Geneva as 1^st prize in an archery competition with a running stag as a target. (It is still at Gordon Castle) 1922

5 January 1923
There had died at Boghead, Glass the widow of a soldier who fought in the Crimea War, namely Mrs Watt age 84.  George Watt enlisted in what was known as the North British Fusiliers (Now the Royal Scots Fusiliers) (Note, this is not correct, he served in the Scots Fusiliers Guards, later the Scots Guards).  He was wounded at the Alma and carried the scars on his cheek for the rest of his days.  He often related that when he was reached by two army surgeons after having bled profusely and had become numbed, one of the surgeons pronounced him a hopeless case.  The other said he was a young Scotsman and we will give him a chance.  He got the chance and recovered.  Mrs Watt was a widow for 47 years.

5 January 1923
On Friday 29 December at the school was held a concert in aid of the WRI.   It was opened by Donald Cameron in absence of his father, he made an admirable Chairman.  Miss McGregor the organist conducted a choir of children.  £25 was raised.

2 February 1923
On the evening of Friday 16 January Rev. Mr Guthrie gave a lecture on Burns and his songs in the school.

9 February 1923
The statue of 5^th Duke of Richmond on Huntly Square was sculptured by Alex Brodie and unveiled 1862.  The Duke died in 1880.

23 February 1923
A Poem “A Boy Again”

“I would give this wide, wide world just to be a boy again
Bare headed and bare footed running wild
Free from cares and shares that beset the best of men”

16 March 1923
Died at Hillockhead, Glass 13 March John Wink age 67.

23 March 1923
Farm of Overhall, Cairnie of 169 acres of which 30 acres is rough pasture was advertised for sale at an upset of £2300.  There were many enquiries but it was sold privately.

30 March 1923
Article on Huntly of yesterday.  Hugh McVeagh started linen manufacture under the auspices of the Duke of Gordon.  This was the first in the NE and was a great success.  Soon the output was £40,000 a year and 73,150 yards of cloth made in one year.      The road from Aberdeen to Huntly by the Glens of Foudland was opened in 1804 and the stone bridge over the Deveron near Gibston was opened soon after.  The bridge over the Bogie is described in 1794 as a modern bridge of 3 arches, it was erected after the start of linen trade in 1737.

6 April 1923
The Cottar Market at Huntly Square.  Wages had a tendency downwards,  Grieves got £70 a year: Foremen got £60 a year: Cattlemen got £60 a year; 2^nd horsemen got £55 a year.  All with free house, garden and usual perquisites.

8 June 1923
At Aberdeen Sheriff Court Jas. Lemon of Westfolds, Glass and latterly of Glenshee, Glass and 3 St Mary’s Place, Aberdeen appeared in connection with his bankruptcy.  His assets were NIL 7 his liabilities £46.14.11.  Sheriff Laing said he had £400 in the Bank a few months ago and now he had nothing.  Lemon said he had squandered the money recklessly and he kept no books.  The Sheriff said it was obvious that Lemon refused to give any information as to what he had done with the money.  He permitted the case to be reported to the Judge Advocate.

8 June 1923
From a poem “Along in the Bin”

Hushed in the stillness of the night
Hiding in darkness broad and deep
The stately trees, like men of might
Keep guard while nature is asleep.

The voice of God is all I hear;
Along the road that lies between:
“Wages of Sin my only fear:
In Presence of the Great Unseen.”

20 July 1923
Story of the Nova Scotia colonists on the HECTOR.

3 August 1923
Glass Annual Picnic and Games held in a field (the Glebe) near Invermarkie Lodge on Saturday 2 July.  Not a very good day climate wise.

7 September 1923
Joseph Farrington in his Diary recently published says that the Duchess of Gordon (Jane Maxwell) spent a large part of 1802 in Paris and became outrageously Napoleonic.  Notwithstanding that he had prevented Her Grace marrying her daughter Georgina, afterwards Duchess of Bedford – to his step son Eugene Beauharnais, she openly declared that she hoped to see General Bonaparte breakfast in Ireland, dine in England, and sup at Gordon Castle.  The Countess of Errol declares she ought to be sent to the Tower.

1923
At this date Ford delivery vans were sold new for £110.

14 September 1923
There was much competition among the car hire people in Huntly.  Cecil Borthwick offered a Ford car for hire at 6d. per mile.  Jas. Fitzpatrick had a 14 seater Char-a-Banc for hire.

14 September 1923   THE GROUSE’S PLAYER (a few verses only)

O’  Lord, wha guides the rich an’ peer,
The elephant and the loose;
On the twalt o’ August dinna forget
Aboot us peer wee grouse.

When the hunter pints his deadly gun,
O’ Lord, mak’ true his aim:
I’d rather far be carriet awa’
Than be left on the hillside lame.

O’ Lord, noo whisper t’ the men
Assembled in the big, braw, hoose;
Tho’ they get the doctor tae ease their sairs;
There’s nae sic doctor for us peer grouse.

21 September 1923
Glass chauffeurs and Keepers Dance at the Central School on Friday 28 September.  John Catto, Invermarkie Kennels was Secretary.  The price was gents 3/6 and ladies by invitation.

28 September 1923
On Sunday 29 September Sir F. Bridge CVC will give a recital at Glass Parish Church at 3.3- pm

5 October 1923
On Sunday last the recital by Sir F. Bridge drew large crowd to the Church.  He is still a considerable “draw” and many cars about the church showed that many came from a distance to this most beautiful of country churches in the NE.  He was assisted by his daughter Mrs Stainer and her two daughters Flora and Hillary.

2 November 1923
Died at Market Hill 27 October Margaret Duncan age 78 wife of Donald McDonald.

19 October 1923
Died at Redford, Cabrach John Yeats MA born in Cabrach in 1832 he was at first a farm servant but pursued his studies and graduated in Arts at Aberdeen in 1861.  He was for a time a schoolmaster at Monquhitter etc.

23 November 1923
Huntly Feeing Market Friday 22 November.  Business was stiff and many failed to get engaged.  First horsemen and cattlemen £27 – £30.: 2^nd horsemen £24-£28: 3^rd horsemen £19-£24: Youths £15-£18: Boys £9 – £14.  The Recruiting Sgts. Of the Gordons were present with the Gordons Band.

14 December 1923
Miss McGregor’s singing class at an examination held at Keith in connection with the Associated London College of Music had the following passes.  Margaret & Jean Shand, Schoolhouse first class honours.; Annie Aberdein and Rose Duncan, the Haugh Edinglassie both first class

21 December 1923
Order by John Cook & Sons shipowners Aberdeen for a steamer of 1200 tons for the Baltic trade from Alex. Hall & Sons, Aberdeen to be ready for service June 1824?

28 December 1923
DEVERON

She rises in the Cabrach hills
A burnie jist gie narie;
An’ Blackwater she rins into her
Before she reaches Belcherrie.

And aye she steers her course alang
And twines through mony a pass
It’s first she passes Wallakirk
And syne the Haugh o’ Glass

It’s now she’s clear o’ a’ the hills
The hills that’s famed for storm
An’ taks her route doon by the Birks
An’ roon by Terryhorn.

She’ll pass the Brig o’ Cairnford
An’ doon by Peterkirk
An’ pass by Huntly Lodge
An’ then she’ll join the Bogie.

11 January 1924
Hogmany Dance at Glass School 60 couples present despite the bad weather.  Music  by J. & C. Forbes and T. Whitecross of Huntly.

11 January 1924
Huntly Branch of the National Farmers Union was James Bonnyman of Belnaboth, Glass

11 January 1924
Article on Rail accident at Huntly in 1869.

18 January 1924
Details of storms

18 January 1924
First talk of a NURSE at Glass was a letter from Mrs Kessler of Invermarkie Lodge to the Aberdeenshire Nursing Association.

8 February 1924
By the death of the Countess de Mirasol widow of the late Mr Carlos Gordon of Wardhouse, Mr Rafael Gordon of Wardhouse becomes Marquis of Mirasol.  The Countess who died at Madrid aged 79 years was the daughter of the Count of Mirasol.  In 1871 she married the late Carlos Pedro Gordon, her cousin, who died in 1876 leaving 2 sons.  Mr Rafael Gordon of Wardhouse, the new Marquis, and Mr Pedro Gordon.  Her funeral was attended by the Spanish Royal Family.  She had been at Court for 30 years.  Soon after her husband’s death the Queen Regent Marie Constantina entrusted to her care the Royal Princesses with whom she remained till they were married.  Her sister in law Mrs Lumsden of CLOVA was at her bedside when she died after an illness of 3 weeks.

7 March 1924
A storm of snow, the heaviest in Dufftown since 1908.

14 March 1924
Poaching was a crime of great antiquity.  In 1424 an Act was passed whereby on a third conviction the culprit “tyned his life”.   Football had to be declared illegal in 1324 while golf shared the same fate in 1424 as it was an unprofitable amusement.

14 March 1924
Death of Mrs McBain at Westhaugh, Rhynie age 89 years.  She was a daughter of the late James Jopp, farmer, Badheir, Lower Cabrach and had a family of 7 one of whom, Peter Jopp F.S.A. is a worker in connection with the Church of Scotland.

21 March 1924
Death at the Cloisters, Westminster Abbey of Sir Frederick Bridge CVO.  A plain man, deeply religious he possessed an almost Christ like faith, with him it is said – he placed complete on the fact  “God is in his Heaven; All’s well with the World” He was a great raconteur besides being an attentive listener to those with whom he was engaged in conversation.

28 March 1924
Funeral of Sir Frederick took place on Friday afternoon 21 March.  A large assembly met at Glass Parish Church including the school children, the Beldorney children met the cortege at the entrance to Wallakirk.

2 May 1924
Death of George McPherson of Edinglassie, Glass at the Lloyd House near Wolverhampton age 73.  He was the 3^rdson of the late Geo. McPherson, of Gibston, Huntly.

9 May 1924
Bostock & Wombwells Menagerie at Huntly Wednesday 14 May.   Prices of admission 1/3 for adults and 9 pence for children.

15 August 1924
Will of late Geo. McPherson of Edinglassie.  Gross £126.370:  Net £115/484   Many of the servants got legacies.  Tipton the chauffeur got £100.

15 August 1924

Huntly Lodge bought by Mr Leybourne Davidson.  4000 acres of farm policies and a grouse moor at Gartly of 3000 acres.  Mr Davidson was a tea planter in Ceylon.  A native of Edinburgh.  One of his sons became Sir Stanley Davidson the famous Edinburgh physician (not surgeon as stated in the Huntly Express!  – see comment from Dr W Leslie Alexander in the comments section below).  For further reference see pages 110 and 111 of “Life on one leg” by Tom Scott Sutherland 1957

Mr Davidson had been a tenant for a number of years and would have preferred to remain a tenant but that was not possible with the Duke of Richmond and Gordon’s decision to sell all his land holdings in Strathbogie.  Huntly Lodge has been a hotel since 1945 or thereby.

See Huntly Express of 3 June 1927 with news of Mr Leybourne Davidson of Huntly Lodge being created a Knight in the New Year Honours List.

7 November 1924
Life story of Lord Mount Stephen.

23 January 1925   Dr Ogg is shortly leaving Huntly to take up residence in London.  For 10 years he has practised in Huntly.  The practice has been acquired by Dr K. D. Falconer MC who, since the War, has been in practice in Blairgowrie.

20 March 1925
The estate of Glenmoriston, Glass has been sold by Mr Morrison to George Tough, Clifton Cottage, Cambus o’May, Ballater.

Price of a Triumph motor cycle at this time was £42 other makes varied according to make.

17 April 1925
Account of the death of David Simon at Columbia, South Carolina on 1 April by murderous assault.

5 June 1925
Died at Market Hill, Glass on 31 May Donald McDonald age 88 years.

9 October 1925
Full story of the life of Lord Strathcona (Donald Smith cousin of Lord Mount Stephen) starts with this issue and continues for about 5 more issues that year.

27 November 1925
A long article by Dr Bulloch on the Gordons of Fyvie.

25 December 1925
Death of John Mitchell native of the Cabrach and proprietor of the Atheneum after Jimmy Hay.

8 January 1926
Died at 6 Queens Gardens, Aberdeen on 4 January Jane McPherson eldest and last surviving daughter of the late Geo. McPherson of Gibston age 85.  She left £43.186.

19 and 26 February 1926
Articles on Hon. Wm Gordon of Fyvie 1736-1816 by J.M. Bulloch.

9 April 1926
Article on Lockhart Gordon by J.M. Bulloch.

21 May 1926
Time of the General Strike. W. Sorley Brown writing in the Border Telegraph of last week says;- “The T.U.C. has become a great power in Britain.  It controls  the Labour or Socialist Government.  It is a Government within a Government and may truly be called a SOCIET and I suggest that its name be changed to the TRADE UNION SOVIET”.

21 May 1926   The GLLYNO car cost from £162. RM Gibb, 57 Deveron Street, Huntly was the agent.

2 July 1926
Died at 8 Queen Street, Huntly Elspet Duffton age 85.  As a young woman she was on the staff of the Duchess of Gordon at Huntly Lodge.

3 September 1926
A free gift sale in Glass School was opened by the Marchioness of Temair on Saturday 28 August to raise funds for a public hall.

29 October 1926
From the 1^st November the motor bus between Glass and Huntly will make only one run daily.  Leaves the Haugh at 1.30 pm returning from Huntly at 5.15 pm on the return.

29 October 1926
At Huntly and District Licencing Count Mary Gordon applied for the renewal of the licence previously held by her father – who had died in the month of May.  Police Inspector Michie said the Chief Constable recommended that the communicating door between the house and the shop be shut.  The licence was granted.

12 November 1926
It was in a letter from Queen Victoria written from Balmoral on 9 November 1874 and addressed to Disraeli that the first mention of the Duke of Richmond receiving the title of Duke of Gordon.  The Queen strongly suggested that he be given the title.

17 December 1926
At the beginning of October NURSE ROSS resigned from Glass and NURSE BARR succeeded her.

14 January 1927
A note on the “ADMIRAL”.  Every Saturday he went on his white pony to the Churchyard of Drumblade to visit the grave of his wife.  He was a punctilious man, affable but not too approachable.  It may be said that he regarded himself as the custodian of Huntly.  If any stranger should appear on the Square the Admiral would call on the hairdresser Robt. Smith to make enquiries as to whom he might be and what his purpose might be in the Raws of Strathbogie.  He had no patience with matters educational as developed under the Act of 1872.  On most mornings his familiar figure, with his stoop, his cane under his arm would emerge from Castle Street.  Often as not a young boy might doff his cap as he passed – not that young boys in Huntly were more respectful than they are now – but he was sure to be rewarded with a penny for his manners.  His first call would likely as not be at Fish Jean’s stall for cat food – he was very fond of his cats and indeed all animals.  Then to the Union Bank where he might run into his own daughter.

See “The Last Dukes of Gordon and their Consorts” for details about Admiral Charles Gordon (1798-1876)

28 January 1927
Not for 25 years has Scotland been visited by earth tremors like those of last week.  On Sunday 23 January at 11.30 pm a low rumbling noise was heard, like muffled thunder accompanied by a sound like a siren, many people in Huntly thought it was the horn blowing the Fire Brigade.  The next shock was at 5.15 am on Monday 24^th January when the houses shook as if a heavy motor was passing, crockery shook and rattled.

28 January 1927
Died at Cairnarget, Glass James Jopp age 86 years.  He had lived at Badheir, Cabrach all his life and had only moved to Cairnarget at last Whitsuntide.

20 May 1927
Article on Cosmo Gordon by J.M> Bulloch.

3 June 1927
Leybourne Davidson of Huntly Lodge created a Knight in the New Year Honours List.  A son of Jas. Davidson of Dean Park, Edinburgh he made his fortune as a rubber and tea planter.

3 June 1927
Jas. Gauld left Bonfail, Glass for Skatebrae, Auchterless at this time or term.

8 July 1927
On the night of 26 June 1927 The Aberdeenshire Police registered 464 vagrants within the shire.  This was an increase of 69 over the previous year.  The majority were predominantly Scottish.

Men = 251: Women 171: Children = 24:    Irish = 10: English = 37: Scots = 417

23 September 1927
Article on Glass by Rev Dr Bruce in which he recalls that Principal Geddes of King’s College walked from Glass to the University of Aberdeen with straw wrapped round his ankles to keep out the snow and slush.

December 1927   The Public Hall of Glass was opened on Friday 16 December 1927 by Mrs Geddes of Blairmore.

20 January 1928
Death of Duke of Richmond & Gordon at Goodwood House, Sussex on Wednesday aged 82. He succeeded his father in 1903.  His second son who is now Lord Settrington was born in 1904.

Sale of Belnaboth, Glass on 12 May 1928.  James Bonnyman is leaving the district, he went to the Argentine.  He suffered from asthma.

10 August 1928
Death of Edward Kessler on Sunday 29 July 1928.   He left £84.783 and had a home at 33 Dale Street, Manchester.  Mr Guthrie referred to him from the pulpit on the next Sunday.  He came to Glass in 1905.  Mr Guthrie said he remembered him writing asking him (Guthrie) what he could do for the country in the 1^st War.  He was then over 60 years but said he would of course join the volunteers if they would have him.  Mr Guthrie suggested that he become Secretary of the local War Savings Association – he at once agreed.

7 September 1928
Article on Sir Wm Grant of Beldorney.  He was born 13 October 1752 and baptised in the Rothes Parish Register as William son of James Grant in Hillockhead.

Later in 1928 An account of the career of Dr. Wilson who retired in November 1928 after 50 years as a doctor in Huntly.  His father came to Huntly as assistant to D. Duncan McColl, R.N. in July 1828.  Dr Wilson followed his father in 1878.  Dr McCracken was assistant to Dr Wilson senr.

 

1 February 1929   When the Duke of Richmond & Gordon was parting with his estate of Kinrara by Aviemore His Grace withheld from the sale the monument of Duchess Jane Maxwell.  He withheld it that he might hand it over to the Regiment, and in doing so last month he added to the gift a sum of money sufficient for its maintenance and repairs.  Thus the tomb of their ancestress was safe for evermore in the hands of the Trustees of the Regimental War Memorial.

22 February 1929
Poem of the Hach of Drumdelgie in full.

22 March 1929
Death of A.D. Grant proprietor of the Gordon Arms Hotel for 27 years.  He followed his father who had the licence granted in 1845.

Raleigh All steel pedal cycles cost £5.19.6.

10 May 1929
Aberdeen Beach Ballroom opened Friday 3 May 1929; built at a cost of £40.000

24 May 1929   Half Yearly Feeing Market at Huntly
Foreman & cattlemen   £30 – £32
2^nd Horsemen   £226 – £29
3^rd Horsemen    £21  –  £26
Growing lads  £16  – £20
Boys  £10  – £15
All with free board and lodgings.

24 May 1929
General Election which resulted in the return of a minority Labour Government under Ramsay McDonald.  R.W. Smith of Cromallie was the Unionist candidate for Central Aberdeenshire and Fred Martin the Liberal; Fraser McIntosh stood as the labour representative.  The Conservatives held a meeting at Glass School on Monday night 20 May 1929.  Rev Mr Wm Guthrie presided and in those days there was no question of the local Minister not taking part in politics.  Mr Guthrie, like most of the Glass voters, was a staunch Conservative and opened his address by saying that the Unionist Government was the best for the country, the candidate knew the county and its people.  When the time came for questions to be asked, one of the ladies present said, “we are quite content”.

5 July 1929
London Scottish expected to arrive at Huntly between 3 and 4 pm on Saturday  20 July.  They will be met by the Band of the 6^th Gordons who will play them through the town to their camp ground beyond the Bridge of Deveron.  In the evening Provost Christie will entertain the officers at the Gordon Arms Hotel, later a dance will be held in the Stewarts Hall.  Col. D. Lyall Grant, the member of a well-known Aberdeen family will attend the Service at the Parish Church.

Timetable Sunday 21 July at Huntly
Monday 22 to Dufftown via Glass

19 July 1929
An article on the London Scottish.

26 July 1929
Full story of the London Scottish visit to Huntly.

2 August 1929
Good weather, Glass harvest in dry weather, though some rain is needed especially for the turnips.  Oats a very good crop, peats being driven from the mosses and stacked at the farms.  Very heavy rain on Monday.

9 August 1929
Bostock’s Circus at Huntly on Wednesday 14 August at the Market Muir.  Children 6d – 1/3. Two performances at 3 and 8 pm

16 August 1929
Article on Huntly School in 1856.

23 August 1929
Cinematograph pictures in Glass school on Wednesday and Thursday evenings 27 & 28 August in aid of the raising of funds for purchasing a car for the DISTRICT NURSE.  The film was “The Triumph of the Rat”

23 August 1929
At a meeting of the Presbytery of Strathbogie on Wednesday 20 August 1929 Glass Parish Church was renamed “ST. ANDREWS”/

30 August 1929
The Union of the Church of Scotland and the Free Church of Scotland was consummated at Edinburgh on Wednesday 2^nd October 1929 and so officially ended the great division of the churches known as the “Disruption” which had its roots mainly in Strathbogie, with our own parish of Glass deeply embroiled in the dispute which caused a rift in many families, lasting for a couple of generations in some cases.

13 September 1929
A poem in the London Scottish Regimental Gazette.
In tribute to the girls of Huntly

“To Huntly girls so sprightly
Who dance a reel so lightly
Invited all the London Scots
To come and try a measure
The London Scots so fit and brown
Said, the girls of Huntly, do not frown
Because we have to turn you down
O’ lovely girls of Huntly”

6 September 1929
Details of organ recital given by the Stainer family on the organ at Glass Church.  Mrs Stainer was the daughter of Sir Frederick Bridge.  On afternoon 4 pm 7 September.

They played the Solemn March (Henry Purcell) arranged for 3 violins, cello and organ.  This march was composed by Purcell for the funeral of Queen Mary in Westminster Abbey in 1694.  Sir Frederick Bridge arranged the March for 8 trombones and it was performed in the Abbey at Royal Funerals.  The 2^nd movement from the concerto (Bach) for 2 violins and piano will be played by Hilary, John and Flora Stainer.  The family will also play an orchestral arrangement of the well-known harvest hymns.  “Come ye thankful people, come”.  The vocal trio “Lift thine eyes” (Mendelsohn) will be sung by Flora, Teddy and John Stainer.  The soprano solo “Holy, holy God Almighty (Handel) will be sung by John Stainer accompanied on the organ by Mrs Bridge and the “Allegro Appassionato” for cello (Saint Saens) is to be rendered by Flora Stainer accompanied by John Stainer.

20 September
Presentation to Joseph Dunbar on his 70^th Birthday

27 September 1929
Huntly unemployed at this time were;
24 men
3 young men
1 boy

16 women
1 young woman

45 in total.

1 November 1929
Glass Harvest all in.  Potato lifting almost finished.  Ploughing begun on several farms.  Threshing done with good results.

April 28 1939
HOT DINNERS

This winter soup, instead of cocoa, was supplied to the pupils at the mid-day meal at Glass School.  The benefit of such a meal was much appreciated by parents and pupils alike.  Thanks are due to Mr Ingleby of Invermarkie Lodge, and the many farmers and friends in the district who so generously contributed in kind to the supplies needed.

May 5 1939

DISPLENISH SALE AT BRAETON, MORTLACH

ON MONDAY 15^TH MAY 1939

The subscribers, favoured with instructions will Sell by Public Roup as above, the whole Farm Stocking, Implements and Surplus Household Furniture, belonging to Mr Thom. Ramsay, way going tenant, and including:-

LIVESTOCK –

Brown Mare, 8 years old; Brown Mare, mid-aged (both correct workers in all farm work): 4 Superior Dairy Cows, from 2 to 7 years old, all in good season; 10 B.P> Six-quarter-old Stots and Heifers, all in forward condition; 7 B.P. Yearlings, special good stots; 4 Young Calves; 70 Hens, one year-old.

IMPLEMENTS Etc.

3 Box Carts with Frames (one convertible to Long Cart and with Frame for Live stock), 2 Sleighs, 2 Single Ploughs (1 M.P) Drill Plough, Grubber, Spring Harrow, Iron Harrows, Grass Seed Harrows, Set Wooden Harrow, Drill Harrow, Turnip Sowing Machine, Millwaukee Binder, Metal Roller, Stone Roller, Turnip Hasher, Weighing Machine and Weights, Barn Fan, Bushel and Straik, 2 Wire Strainers, Pinch and Mell, Box and Peat Barrows, Peat Sleigh, Peat Spades, Forks, Rakes, Hoes, Spades, Shovels, Picks, Lanterns, Anvil, Turning Lathe and a quantity Carpenter’s Tools (all in first class order), Crosscut Saw, Bench Vice, Mole Traps, D.B. Gun, Scythes, Drag Rakes, Ropes, Ladders, Sculls, Riddles, Sieves, Soldering Outfit, Horse Clippers, Boring Brace and Bits, Hedge Shears, Augers (as new), 2 Portable Poultry Houses, quantity Potatoes in Bags, Turnip Seed, Yokes and Swingletrees, quantity Wood Planking, Barrels, Troughs, Corn Box, Hay Knife, quantity Straw, Paraffin Drum, Stack Cover, Stack Props, Grass Seed, Riddles, Stack Barrow, Sacks, Portable Boiler.  Bothy Bed and Bedding, Cheese Presser, 2 Bee Hives and Appliances, Sheep Shears, Gig Lamps, Brooder, 100-Egg Gloucester Incubator.

2 Sets Cart and Plough Harness, Set Gig Harness, Riding Saddle.

The whole of the above Implements and Tools have been very well kept and are in first-class order.

SURPLUS HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE –

Mahogany Sofa, 2 Elbow and 4 Single Chairs, Bedsteads, 3 Feather Beds, Overmantel, Mahogany Dining Table, Dining Room Suite, Swing Chair, Wicker Table, Fenders, Pots, Basket, Jars, Baking Case, Cheese Chessels, Cream Jars, Girdle, End-over-end Chairs, and all usual Dairy Utensils.

Sale to commence at 10.30 am prompt.

ROBERT HENDRY & SON, Auctioneers.

Mrs Hepburn, The Royal Oak, Dufftown will supply Luncheon and Refreshments at moderate charges.

Auction Offices, Keith

May 12 1939

GLASS W.R.I.

A DANCE

Will be held in

GLASS PARISH HALL

On Friday 26^th May at nine pm.

Proceeds in aid of the above funds

Admission – Gents 2/6d. Ladies 1/6d.

Sandy Johnstone and His Swingers

Free Bus leaves Huntly Square at 8.30 pm

Numerous Prizes, Lucky Ticket,

Spot Waltz, etc.

Tea will be served.

 

May 19 1939

GLASS

THE SMITHY at MARKET ROAD, Glass will be Closed as from 22^nd May 1939.

MR GEORGE GALT takes the opportunity of thanking his numerous Customers for their support during the last 13 years.

As from 29^th May 1939, the SMITHY will be Re-opened by BLAIRMORE ESTATE under the management of Mr George Galt, who will give the same attention to Customers as before.

June 2 1939

GLASS

THE ELDERSHIP

Last Sunday, Mr Alex. Watson, M.A., Glass Schoolhouse: Mr Alex. Robertson, Aswanley: and Mr George Milne, Waterside, were ordained and inducted to the eldership of Glass Church.  The service, which was largely attended, took place in the South Church, and was conducted by the minister, the Rev. W.G. Guthrie, B.D., the praise being led by Miss MacGregor, organist of the church, and the choir.   The above-mentioned elders, chosen by a vote of the congregation, are all highly respected men, and form a very welcome addition to the Kirk Session

 

July 7 1939

GLASS

COLLECTION

The gratifying sum of £3.8s.9d. was collected in the district in aid of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.  The collectors were – Mary MacWilliam, Jean McPherson, George Burgess, Francis Watt, Mary Simpson, Annie Gilchrist, Nan Rust, Jean Duff, Anna Robertson and Margaret McCrae.

CHILDREN’S TREAT

A most enjoyable day was spent by the children of the parish last Saturday, when they were entertained to a treat by the laird of Invermarkie, Mr J.A. Ingleby.  Owing to the bad weather the children were accommodated at the Castle, where games, conjuring, and other novelties were enjoyed by the large assembly.  Tea and ice-cream were provided, and before departing the children gave three hearty cheers for Mr Ingleby for his kindness in providing such a delightful entertainment.

 

July 21 1939

There has been an improvement in the weather conditions during the past few days and visitors have been able to spend the greater part of their holidays in the open air.  On Friday large parts of the country, particularly in the southern counties of England, were swept by severe thunderstorms, causing floods in many districts.

GLASS AND LOWER CABRACH districts suffered on Sunday afternoon from a terrific storm of hail, accompanied by thunder and a waterspout.  A large number of cars were caught in the torrent just above the Richmond Hotel and at EDINGLASSIE.  In the latter area, considerable damage was done to crops and numerous properties were flooded.  As the surging waters rapidly rose and the torrential downpour threatened to smash the roofs of cars, many of the occupants felt rather alarmed until the storm abated a short time later.

August 4 1939

GLASS

HAIRDRESSING

A hairdressing demonstration was the feature at Glass W.R.I. meeting.  Mr Donnelly, Huntly, sent Miss Nicol and other two assistants, Miss Nicol giving a demonstration on marcel waving, and speaking on the care of the hair.  Competition awards were:- Best-kept hair – Mrs Duncan, Westerpark:  2  Miss M. Duncan, Edinglassie:  Neatest ankles – 1 Miss McBain, Beldorney:  2 – Miss Fraser, Sawmill Cottage.  The hostesses were – Mrs Duncan, Edinglassie: Mrs Cruickshank, South Manse: and Mrs McLean, Police Station.  The demonstrators were thanked on the call of Mrs Duncan, and Mrs Fraser thanked the tea hostesses.

Newsworthy Events for the period around the Second World War can be found here

January 25 1946

GLASS WHIST DRIVE

In aid of St Valery Appeal Fund, a successful military whist drive and dance were held in the Parish Hall.  Mr Watson, Schoolhouse, was time-keeper and winners were:- 1 Mrs Cruickshank (capt), Mr Cruickshank, Miss Davidson and Mrs D. Gauld:  consolation – Miss M. Duncan (capt.) Mr A. Duncan, Mr J. Duncan and Mr A. Morrison.  Travelling prizes went to Mr F. Robertson and Mrs Henderson.  The prizes, gifted by Mrs Pinsent, Mrs Ingleby, Mrs Watson and Mrs Cruickshank, were handed over by Mr Joe Reid, a local ex-prisoner of war.  During the evening bring and buy parcels were sold on behalf of W.R.I. funds.  A well-attended dance followed to music by Messrs. Aitken, Duff, Kerr, Ramsay and Reid, with Miss P. Thomson at the piano.  A spot waltz prize was won by Miss M. Robson and Mr P. Thomson.  Mr A. Duncan was M.C. and Mr Pl. Shand, doorkeeper.  Assistance during the evening was given by Mr Cruickshank and Mr Henderson.  Tea and light refreshments were served by Mrs Ramsay, Mrs Macpherson, Mrs W. Gauld and Miss Bateson.

February 22 1946

GLASS CHURCH GUILD

At the inaugural meeting of Glass Parish Church Women’s Guild, held in the Parish Hall, the Rev. D. McNeil Livingstone presided.  The meeting was addressed by Miss Petrie, president, Strathbogie Presbytery  Council and Mrs Gardiner, president of Rhynie Guild.  The following were elected – Hon. Presidents – Mrs Pinsent and Mrs Ingleby:  president, Mrs W. Duncan; vice-presidents – Mrs Donald and Mrs Watson; hon. Secretaries – Mrs McLean and Miss J. Thomson; hon. Treasurers – Mrs W. McIrvine and Mrs J. McIrvine; committee – Mrs R. Robertson, Mrs W. McBain, Mrs Duncan (Boghead), Mrs Henderson, Mrs Shand and Mrs McPherson (Braehead).  Tea was provided by Mrs Pinsent and Mrs Ingleby.  The Rev. Mr Livingstone thanked the speakers and hostesses.  The meeting closed with the Benediction.

March 1 1946

In Aid of GLASS BADMINTON CLUB GRAND DANCE

Will be held in Glass Parish Hall on Friday 8^th March commence 8.30pm

Prize dances

Allan’s Dance Orchestra

Admission – Gents 2/6, Ladies 2/-

Refreshments will be sold

1. Kerr and J. Duff, Joint Secys.

 

March 1 1946

GLASS W.R.I.

Mrs Pinsent presided at an open meeting of the local Institute when reports of Glass Comforts and Prisoner of War Funds were given by Mrs Ingleby, vice-president.  In the unavoidable absence of Mr Cochrane, Spey Bay, Mrs Ingleby, in order to stimulate interest in the proposed forming of a local Dramatic Club, devised a programme of games and charades, which together with a sketch by the Youth Club, completed a most enjoyable programme.  Mystery parcel gifted by Mrs Ramsay was won by Miss M. Watt.  Mrs Ingleby was tea hostess and was assisted by Mrs Watt, Mrs Henderson and Miss B. Robson.  Mrs Pinsent and Mrs Main proposed the votes of thanks.

March 22 1946

GLASS CHURCH WOMAN’S GUILD

BASKET MILITARY WHIST DRIVE AND DANCE#

(in aid of Guild Funds)

In Glass Parish Hall on Friday 29^th March at 7.30 pm

Whist 2/6 – Hostess Free

Whist and Dance 3/-  Dance only 1/6

Forbes Band

March  22 1946

GLASS W.R.I. VISITORS

At the monthly meeting of the W.R.I. Mrs Pinsent presided and welcomed Mrs J. Taylor and party from Huntly.  Mrs Taylor gave a demonstration on massage treatment which was followed by keen interest by an appreciative audience of members and friends.  Solos, duets and a monologue were contributed by Mr P.H. Gordon, Miss McWilliam and Mrs G. Milne.  Miss Campbell was accompanist.  The sketch, “A Visit to Paris”, presented by Mr Gordon. Miss Campbell and Miss McWilliam, completed a most enjoyable programme.  Competition:- Marmalade, Mrs F. Robertson; jelly marmalade, Mrs Main.  Mystery parcel  gifted by Mrs Main was won by Mr J. Taylor.  Mrs Ramsay was tea hostess and Mrs Catson proposed the votes of thanks.

 

April 5 1946

IN AID OF FLASS AND CABRACH DISTRICT NURSING ASSOCIATION

Huntly F.P. Dramatic Club will present

“THE BLUE GOOSE”

Glass Parish Hall on Friday 18^th April

Doors open 7pm commence at 7.30 pm

Admission 2/6 and 1/6; Children half price

Dance to follow

Admission Gents 1/6 Ladies 1/-

Allan’s Dance Orchestra

April 5 1946

GLASS WHIST AND DANCE

Glass Church Women’s Guild held a successful hostess whist drive and dance in the Parish Hall – the Rev. D McNeill Livingstone presiding.  Whist winners were; – Miss M Donald and scouts; 2 Mr A. McBain and scouts; consolation, Miss M. Duncan and scouts; travelling prizes, Mr R. Gauld and Mrs J. McIrvine.  Mrs Watson presented the prizes and Mr A. Duncan acted as M.C. at the dance

April 12 1946

GLASS CHURCH WOMAN’S GUILD

In Aid of Guild Funds
CABRACH DRAMATIC CLUB will present

“CRONY O’ MINE”

(BY A.P.. Wilson)

In Glass Parish Hall on Friday 26^th April

Doors open 7.30; commence 8 pm prompt.

Admission 2/6  and 1/6; Children 9d.

Dance to follow

Admission Gents 1/6; Ladies 1/-

Forbes’ Dance Band

April 19 1946

GLASS ST ANDREW’S CHUURCH

APPEAL FOR FABRIC FUNDS

This Appeal is issued by the Kirk Session of St. Andrew’s Church, Glass, with the authority and approval of the Presbytery of Strathbogie.

The Fabrics of the above Church and Manse are in a state of disrepair requiring a large sum of money for the necessary renovations.

The former Heritors of the Church – Sir Thomas Birkett, Mr Ingleby and Commander Pinsent – have generously offered to meet the major costs of the repairs to the Manse.

For the Church renovations, steps are being taken to raise funds from the congregational members, but it is felt that there may be people now outside the Parish who have associations with Glass and former members who might wish to contribute to the preservation and maintenance of this beautiful  church, the “PRIDE OF THE PRESBYTERY”.

The urgent requirements are the re-building of two of the walls in which dangerous cracks have developed; the installation of a proper heating system with radiators; the re-setting and strengthening of the Geddes Memorial stained-glass windows; repairs to guttering; the provision of lavatory accommodation at St Andrew’s and South Church; painting outside woodwork etc.  Major repairs to the Organ will completely absorb a small fund available for this purpose only.  There are further requirements, such as the provision of a lighting system, if the funds can be found.

This Appeal is being made for the sun of £800, and all monies received will be used for the above purposes and for the building up of a Fabric Fund for the furnishings of the Church and to ensure that the Fabrics of Church and Manse will not be allowed to deteriorate.

Those who may feel disposed to contribute may send their donations to the present Minister, the Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone, c/o The Post Office, Huntly, or to the Hon. Treasurer, Mr Alex Horn, Boghead, Glass, or to the Gordon Street Branch of the North of Scotland Bank, Huntly, or to the Royal Bank of Scotland, Huntly.  All donations sent in response to this Appeal will be personally acknowledged by the Minister or Hon. Treasurer.

1. McNeill Livingstone, Minister

Alex Watson, Session Clerk

St Andrew’s Church of Scotland, Glass April 10 1946

 

April 19 1946

GLASS

“THE BLUE GOOSE”   In aid of the funds of Glass and Cabrach District Nursing Association, Huntly F.P. Dramatic Club gave a performance of the play “The Blue Goose”, in the Public Hall on Friday night.  The Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone presided.  A vote of thanks to the players was proposed by Mr J. A. Ingleby, Blairmore and Mr A.T. Begg, producer, replied on behalf of the players.  The programme prize was won by Mrs Henderson, Blairmore.  Allan’s dance band played at the dance which followed, with Mr A. Duncan as M.C.  The evening’s drawings amounted to £44.14s.6d.

April 26 1946

GLASS W.R.I. – Mrs Pinsent presided  at the monthly meeting of the W.R.I.  Miss McKenzie, Aboyne, president of Aberdeenshire Federation, addressed the meeting and a display of work shown by her was much admired.  The social programme which followed consisted of songs, dances and piano selections contributed by three young artistes – Millicent Fiddes, Moira and Sheena Wilson and a monologue by Miss Bateson.  Competition winners – Miss J. Smith and Miss S. Robertson.  Mrs F. Robertson proposed votes and thanks to the speaker, artistes and hostesses.  Mrs W. Duncan, Mains of Edinglassie, presented to Mrs Pinsent’s gold pin – subscribed by members of the Institute – for presentation to her infant grandson.  Mrs Pinsent, on behalf of Mr and Mrs Andrew Pinsent, thanked the members and also expressed her own appreciation of the gift.

May 3 1946

GLASS PLAY – In aid of the funds of Glass Parish Church Woman’s Guild , the Cabrach Dramatic Society gave a performance of the three-act comedy “Crony O’ Mine” in the Hall.  The Rev. Donald Sinclair was producer, and the Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone presided and proposed the votes of thanks.  A dance followed.  Mr C. Thomson was M.C.  The total drawings amounted to £46.17s.4d.

GUILD – Glass Church Woman’s Guild, for their last meeting of the session, had as guests the Rev J. and Mrs Campbell, Cairnie.  Mr Campbell gave an address and Mrs Campbell exhibited needlework done by members of Cairnie Junior Guild.  Mrs Pinsent gave a report on the Strathbogie Presbyterial Council meeting held at Keith.  Tea was served by members of the Guild Committee.  The Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone and Mrs W. Duncan proposed votes of thanks.  The meeting closed with the Benediction.

May 31 1946

GLASS IN AID OF SCHOOL FUNDS – The Cairnie Youth Dramatic Society gave a successful performance of a “Matrimonial Hairst”, by H.J. Duffus, to a large audience in the Parish Hall in aid of the funds of Glass School.  The play was produced by Mr Tocher, Cairnie Schoolhouse.  Mr Walker, Lower Cabrach School, was chairman.  A well-attended dance followed to music by Forbes’ Band.  Total drawings amounted to £47.15s.5d.

 

June 7 1946

 

VARIETY CONCERT

Will be given by the BETTY BRUCE CONCERT PARTY FROM ABERDEEN

In aid of the Building Fund of Lodge Tap o’Noth, Rhynie,

In Public Hall, Glass, on Friday 14^th June 1946

Doors open 7.30; Concert at 8 pm

Chairman – G. Thomson, R.W.M.

Tickets – Reserved 3/6: Unreserved 2/6

Children half-price

DANCE TO FOLLOW

Hay’s Dance Band will supply the music

Ices and Refreshment.  Admission 1/6

 

June 7 1946

GLASS W.R.I. – Following the business meeting in May, the following office-bearers were appointed;- President, Mrs Pinsent, Edinglassie Lodge; vice-president, Mrs Ingleby, Invermarkie Lodge; secretary , Miss Bateson, Edinglassie Lodge; treasurer, Mrs Cruickshank, South Manse.  Members of committee – Mrs McBain, Mrs Henderson, Mrs Ramsay, Mrs McPherson, Mrs Main and Mrs Watson.  Last Friday a happy afternoon was spent by the members at Edinglassie Lodge, when they were the guests of Mrs. A. Pinsent.  Arrangements were made for the proposed trip to the Braemar Gathering in September.

 

 

July 19 1946

 

GLASS OUTING – Glass School children, parents and friends spent an enjoyable day at Banff Links on Monday.  Favourable weather added to the success of the outing.  Arrangements were made by Mr Watson, headmaster and members of the parents’ committee.

BIBLE CLASS SOCIAL – The members of St Andrew’s Bible Class and first communicants’ class, along with friends, held their social and prize-giving last Friday.  In the unavoidable absence of the Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone, the Rev. James Campbell, Cairnie, welcomed the company and read a message of good wishes from Mr Livingstone.  Arrangements for the evening were in the hands of Mrs Pinsent, Miss Bateson and Miss French.  A programme of games and dancing was enjoyed.  Songs were sung by Millicent Fiddes.  Prizes were presented by Mr Campbell to the following; – Proficiency in Bible knowledge (Old Testament) – 1 Dorothy Aitken, 2 Alexander Kerr, 3 Doreen Main, 4 (equal) Jean McPherson and James Alex. Simpson; Bible Class attendances 1 (equal) Margaret M. Henderson, Isobel M. Smith and Mona J. Smith: 2 (equal) Dorothy Aitken and Jean McPherson; 3 Georgia Rust; regular attendance – Margaret B. Duncan, Alexander Kerr, Doreen Main and Jas. Simpson; attendances – Sheila Robertson, Margaret Patterson and Margaret Rust.  Votes of thanks were proposed by Mr Campbell, Miss Bateson and Mr G. Burgess.

 

 

August 9 1946

 

MR ALEX. ROBERTSON

As last week was drawing to a close, a wide circle of the farming community learned with profound regret of the sudden passing of Mr Alex. Robertson, Asswanley, Glass.  Mr Robertson had a serious break-down in health some two years ago, but recovered sufficiently to supervise the management of his farm and was his usual cheery self right up to the end.

A native of Glass, deceased spent his boy-hood at Altnapuddock, and subsequently leased the farm of Hilton.  On leaving there over thirty years ago, he took over the extensive farm of Asswanley, one of the most picturesque and most historic spots in the district.

Passionately fond of horses, Mr Robertson made the breeding, rearing and dealing among horses a special hobby and in this direction achieved considerably more than a local reputation.

Possessed of a keen, pawky humour and a rich command of the Doric, Mr Robertson could recount many incidents, both grave and gay, in a delightful and expressive manner.  A staunch Churchman, he had been for a goodly number of years an elder of St Andrew’s Church.

Mr Robertson, who was in his seventy-third year, is survived by Mrs Robertson and an only daughter.

The funeral to Glass Churchyard on Monday was largely attended, services being conducted by the Rev. D. McNeil Livingstone and the Rev James Campbell.

Appropriate reference to the passing of Mr Robertson was made in the Church of Glass on Sunday.

 

 

August 16 1946

 

IN AID OF GLASS BADMINTON CLUB

GRAND DANCE will be held in Glass Parish Hall on Friday 23^rd August commencing nine pm

Forbes’ Band: Prize Dances

Admission Gents 2s6d. Ladies 2s.

Refreshments will be sold

1. Keir and J. Duff, Joint Secs.

 

 

August 23 1946

 

GLASS PARISH CHURCH WOMAN’S GUILD

SALE OF WORK (In aid of Church Heating Fund)

Will be held in Glass Parish Hall On Saturday 31^st August

To be opened by Miss COWIE, Glenrinnes at three pm

Stalls: Produce, Flowers and Vegetables, Work, Kitchen Ware, Variety, Books, Jumble

Teas – Ices – Soft Drinks

Amusements – Competitions

Donkey Rides for the Children

DANCE TO FOLLOW

8 – 11.30 Admission 1/6

Gifts will be gratefully received at the Hall on evening before Sale by Stall Convenors

 

August 23 1946

GLASS FARMERS’ OUTING – A party of Glass Farmers spent an enjoyable and instructive day at Craibstone on Thursday.  Under the guidance of the respective experts, all aspects of modern farming and experimental work with seeds and fertilisers were shown, in the combine harvester and the milking  parlour where the most modern and hygienic methods are employed.  The party left after expressing thanks to the various officials for enabling them to spend such an interesting and instructive day.

September 6 1946

GLASS CHURCH SALE Ove r £190 Raised by Guild Effort

Glass Hall was beautifully decorated with flowers, plants and flags for the opening of the first sale of work held under the auspices of the Woman’s Guild on Saturday afternoon.  The sale was in aid of the Church heating funds.

There was a large attendance when the Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone, who presided, welcomed the splendid attendance of friends and neighbours and especially Miss Cowie of Glenrinnes, whom he described as having both family and ecclesiastical connections with the parish.  He said it was a historic occasion, being the first sale under the auspices  of the Woman’s Guild and he took the opportunity of congratulating the members for having proved itself an active, energetic and successful organisation under wise and helpful leadership.  Mr Livingstone explained that the sale was being held to provide funds to install a heating system in the church, but made haste to assure Miss Cowie that it was only a materialistic sense that Glass Church was cold; the atmosphere was always warm and friendly.  He had been hauled over the coals  for describing the church as “the pride of Strathbogie” in his appeal; the Mortlach minister and congregation were very cross about it, but he did so in all good faith, and perhaps if it wasn’t so beautiful, the Church of Glass would be warmer than the Church of Mortlach after all!  He called on Miss Cowie to open the sale. (Applause)

Miss Cowie said she was quite overwhelmed by taking part in such a historic occasion, but would do her best to make her part adequate.  She was glad to be back in Glass where she had spent many happy days in her youth, and was glad to be able to do anything  to help the Church of Glass.  She was interested to hear that coals were quite plentiful in Glass – they must be surely, when Mr Livingstone could be hauled over them. (Laughter)   In these days of extensive planning and no achievement, it was grand to see active efforts in a community to overcome difficulties.  As usual they had turned to the ladies whose energy and practical efforts were well testified by the laden stalls.  Now it was up to all present to help to clear those stalls in record time and encourage the Guild in their efforts.  It gave her great pleasure to declare the sale open. (Applause).

Miss Nettie Duncan handed over a gift to Miss Cowie and votes of thanks were proposed by Mr A. Watson, Schoolhouse, session clerk.

STALLS AND STALLHOLDERS

Produce – Mrs J. McIrvine and Mrs F. Robertson (conveners), Misses McIrvine, Simpson, Robson and S. Robertson:  Flowers and vegetables – Mrs Ingleby and Mrs Pinsent (conveners), Misses Bateson, Burberry, McGregor and Mrs Gardyne:  Work – Mrs Henderson and Mrs J. Fraser (conveners), Miss Henderson and Mrs W. McPherson;  Kitchen ware – Mrs Duncan, Mrs W. McBain and Mrs Watson; Men’s stall – Messrs Cruickshank, Henderson and Young; Books – Mrs W,. Gauld and Nurse Miller;  Jumble – Mrs W. McIrvine (convener) Misses J. Smith and Horn:  Ices – Mrs Cruickshank, Mrs F. Watt and Miss M. Watt; Competitions – Misses McPherson, Rust, McIrvine and Main;  Fortune-telling – Mrs Ramsay:  Teas – Mrs W. Duncan and Mrs McPherson (conveners) Mrs Main, Mrs Mackie, Mrs J. Jamieson, Mrs Young, Miss W. Morrison, Miss Burgess, Mrs Gauld and Miss M. Jamieson: Amusements – Messrs Donald, Mackie, Burgess, Kerr, F. Pinsent and Master Denis Cowe.

The convener of the sale was Mrs Pinsent and Mrs McLean was secretary.  Mr A. Horn and Watson were cashiers.

At the dance which followed music was supplied by Messrs Aitken, Duff, Duncan, Kerr, Ramsay and Reid, with Mrs Aitken and Miss Aitken at the piano.  Mr D. Aitken was M.C. and Mr P. Shand doorkeeper.

Gross drawings for the day’s effort were over £190.

September 20 1946

GLASS FOR HALL FUNDS – As the result of a dance held recently in aid of the Parish Hall funds, the sum of £14.6s.9d. has been handed over by Messrs C. Thomson and A. Smith, joint secretaries.

W.R.I. TRIP – This year the W.R.I. trip was revived when members of the Institute travelled to Braemar Gathering.  Bad weather did not daunt the enthusiasm of the members and their friends, who enjoyed the outing and expressed a desire for a return visit to the Gathering under more favourable conditions.

September 27 1946

GLASS WOMEN’S RURAL INSTITUTE have pleasure in announcing that The Forglen Strathspey & Reel Society will give a CONCERT In Glass Parish Hall on Friday 18^th October at Eight pm.

In aid of the Parish Church Fabric Fund

Chairman – Rev. R.S. Thomson, M.A.

Tickets Reserved 3/6: Unreserved 2/6

Reserved rows for children at 1/3

DANCE TO FOLLOW

Forbes’ Band – Gents 2/6, Ladies 2s.  Refreshments

October 25 1946

GLASS CONCERT – A successful entertainment was given in the Parish Hall by the Strathspey and Reel Society on Friday night in aid of St Andrew’s Church Fabric Fund.  Mrs Pinsent, president, introduced the Rev. R.S. Thomson, Huntly, who presided over the large and appreciative audience.  The Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone proposed votes of thanks at the close of the performance.  A largely attended dance followed to music supplied by Forbes’ Band, Huntly.  Total drawings amounted to £60.15s.11d.

November 8 1946

PARISH CHURCH OF GLASS

Sunday November 10

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Special Service in St Andrew’s Church in commemoration of the two Wars will be held, commencing at 10.50 am.

A cordial invitation is extended to ex-Servicemen and ex-Servicewoman of both Wars, and to members of the Home Guard, to be present.  Seats for these will be reserved.

November 15 1946

GLASS W.R.I.

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION FILM SHOW

Will be held in Glass Parish Hall on Friday 22^nd November at 7.30 pm

Admission Free

DANCE TO FOLLOW

In aid of the Scottish Commando’s Benevolent Society

Forbes’ Band Tickets 1s.6d.

 

November 15 1946

In Aid of Funds of GLASS RIFLE CLUB

A MILITARY WHIST DRIVE will be held in Glass Parish Hall on Friday 29^th November

Whist commences at 7.30 pm prompt

Tickets 2s.6d. Captains free

DANCE TO FOLLOW

Gents 2s. Ladies 1s. 6d.

McWilliam’s Band

1. Kerr, Secretary

November 22 1946

 

PARISH OF GLASS

Sunday November 24

HARVEST FESTIVAL SERVICE in SOUTH CHURCH at 11.30 am. Special Collection for General Funds of the Church

Note. The Church will be open from 2 pm to 4 pm on Saturday, November 23, when gifts of Flowers, Fruits, Vegetables, etc. for the Hospital will be gratefully received.

 

November 22 1946

FARMS TO LET ABERDEENSHIRE

BLAIRMORE ESTATE

To Let, when entry at Whitsunday 1947, and Separation of Crop, the Desirable Farm of MAINS OF BLAIRMORE AND COTTERTON, in the Parish of Glass, extending in 222 acres arable and 42 acres rough grazing, or thereby.  The Farm, which is meantime in the occupation of the proprietor, is in a good state of fertility, and the Dwelling house and Steading are commodious, up-to-date, in a good state of repair and equipped with electric light.  There are three Cottar Houses.  Mr William Matthew, Grieve at the Farm, will point out the boundaries to intending offerers on receiving Two Days’ notice – For further particulars apply to R.M. Robertson, Blairmore Estate Office, Glass, Huntly, who will receive Offers up to 21^st December 1946

November 29 1946

GLASS W.R.I. – An interesting film show was given in the Parish Hall last Friday under the auspices of the Ministry of Information.  The hall was well filled by an appreciative audience.  At the dance which followed, the drawings were £15.16s.3d. and the sum of £7.9s.9d. has been sent to the Scottish Commandos Benevolent Fund.

POPPY DAY –  The collection in aid of the Earl Haig Fund was organised by Mr A. Watson, Schoolhouse, and Mrs McBain, Beldorney Schoolhouse.  The following pupils of Glass School made the collection:- G. and A. Shand, K. Wood, J. Main, G. Morrison, G. Cormack, S. Pirie, No. Duncan, J. Stewart, J. and E. Robertson and from Beldorney School – A. Stephen and A. Watt.  The sum collected was |£11.11s.7d.

December 20 1946

In Aid of GLASS BADMINTON CLUB

GRAND HOGMANAY DANCE

will be held in Glass Public Hall on Tuesday 31^st December commencing at 8.30 pm

Novelty Dances

Refreshments will be sold

Admission – Ladies 2/- Gents 2/6

Forbes’ Band in attendance

1. Gardyne and A. Forbes, Joint Secs.

 

December 27 1946

NOTICE

I, JOHN GAULD, wish to thank the Committee of the Glass Welcome Home Fund for the generous Cheque received.

147 Gairn Terrace, Aberdeen

January 10 1947

 

GLASS SPECIAL SERVICE – On Sunday 29^th December, the last Sunday of the old year, a special service was held at six pm in the Public Hall and was conducted by the Rev. Dr Leslie P. Hope, M.A. of Renfield Street Church, Glasgow, former minister of Strathbogie Church, Huntly  There was a large attendance.

SUNDAY SCHOOL PARTY – An enjoyable party for the children of Glass Sunday school was held on Saturday afternoon in the Parish Hall, and was attended by members of the Woman’s Guild.  A programme of music and games was carried out and a splendid tea was served.  The Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone spoke briefly to the children.  At the close of the proceedings a hearty vote of thanks was accorded by cheers from the pupils to Miss McGregor, organist, and Sunday school superintendent of the Parish Church, who had arranged the function; to the ladies of the Guild who had carried out the arrangements and provided the food; to Miss G. Bateson, Edinglassie Lodge, who cleverly organised the entertainment of games; to Mrs Main, who had made the tea, and to all other helpers.

 

January 17 1947

GLASS – F.P. CLUB’S VISIT – In aid of Glass and Cabrach District Nursing Association, the Huntly F.P. Dramatic Club visited Glass last Friday and presented “Well Caught” to a large and appreciative audience.  Mr F.G. Allardice, Huntly, chairman, thanked the players and Mr Begg replied.  Total drawings amounted to £35.

CHILDREN’S PARTY – A very successful party for W.R.I. members’ children was held in Glass Parish Hall on Friday 27^th December.  A most enjoyable afternoon was spent with games which were capably run by Miss Bateson.  Cadet Ewen Pinsent presented each child with a gift from the Christmas tree, which he decorated.  They also got a bag of sweets and a sixpence.

 

February 7 1947

INFIRMARY COLLECTION – Collection for Aberdeen Royal Infirmary from the parish of Glass for last year amounted to £23.9s.

BADMINTON CLUB – About a dozen members turned up for badminton practice on Wednesday evening.  Billy McBain and Angus Gardyne, both from Beldorney, coming a distance of three miles on skis.

GOOD SERVICE – Sgt. Jean Henderson, A.T.S. has been awarded the Certificate of Good Service by the G.O.C. Scottish Command.  Sgt. Henderson is the older daughter of Mr and Mrs Julian Henderson, Blairmore and has been in the A.T.S. for two years and they have a son L/Cpl. Henderson, serving in Palestine with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.

 

February 14 1947

SUDDEN DEATH OF GLASS MINISTER

Rev. D,. McNeill Livingstone

The news that the Rev. D. McNeill Livingstone, minister of St Andrew’s Church, Glass, was found dead in bed at Greenmount, Gordon Street, Huntly, yesterday morning shocked the community.  Mr Livingstone, who was forty-seven years of age, was inducted to the charge at Glass in December 1945.

His untimely passing is a serious blow to his congregation, whose wholehearted co-operation in the extensive improvements to the church and manse he had enlisted.  The church has been described as “beautiful St Andrews” and his intentions were to make it more beautiful still.  To see his plans brought to fruition, however, was not to be.

Undoubtedly Mr Livingstone’s health was much impaired by injuries received in battle.  In the 1914-18 campaign he was wounded while serving as a gunner-observer.  He was a combatant officer and a chaplain in the recent war and held the rank of squadron-leader.

He was a native of Jamaica and was educated at London and Edinburgh Universities.  Previous to going to Glass he held charges in Australia, Culsalmond and Unst, Shetland, and was for five years secretary of the British and Foreign Bible Society, in Queensland.

 

February 14 1947

GLASS PARISH CHUURCH

A MEMORIAL SERVICE

To the late Minister of the Parish, the Rev. D. McNeill, Livingstone, will be conducted by the Rev. R.S. Thomson, Huntly, on Sunday 16^th February, at Three pm. In the South Church.

February 28 1947

BLAIRMORE HOUSE

Blairmore mansion house, which will be opened in September as a preparatory school for boys, was built by the late Mr Alexander Geddes.  The stones, except the granite facings, were quarried from the grounds in which it stands.  Many of the older folk of the locality will recall that, before the motor car became a familiar sight, members of the Geddes family drove into Huntly in a carriage and pair, all replete with coachman and footmen.  In addition to building the mansion house, Mr Geddes remodelled many of the existing farms on the estate and built several new ones.

WAR TIME MYSTERY

It is said that while the work was in progress, it was customary for Mr Geddes to make a daily round taking with him two cans, one full of whisky, the other water, to help the workmen on their way.  Blairmore was afterwards occupied by a Mr Cameron, a son-in-law, and later was acquired by Mr J. A. Ingleby, the present laird.

During the war, the house and grounds were requisitioned by the WAR DEPARTMENT and during that period what happened was something of a Mystery, and speculation was rife regarding the nature and purpose of the highly specialised work and training carried on there.  The Institution of such a school cannot fail to have a beneficial effect on the communal life of Glass.

Huntly Express of June 18 1982.

‘NO-ACTION’ DECISION ON FOOTBRIDGES

Despite an urgent plea from the Strathbogie Community Council for immediate repairs to be made to several footbridges over the river Deveron, Gordon District have decided to take no action at present.

For some time, Strathbogie Community Council have been trying to ascertain which of the two local authorities is responsible for the maintenance of the footbridges which were maintained by the old Huntly District Council prior to local government reorganisation.

However at Tuesday’s meeting of the environmental and miscellaneous services committee, the council abdicated responsibility for the bridges, indicating that they would only be liable for the repair of the bridges if they were the owners of the land at either end of the bridge.

In a report to the committee, Gordon District’s chief executive, Mr Alan Kennedy, said if they were prepared to accept responsibility on this occasion for the maintenance of the bridges at Wallakirk and Lynebain, this could set a precedent and result in requests to undertake responsibility for the maintenance of all footbridges within Gordon.

Urging the council to take some action on the repair of the bridges, local councillor, Mr Gerald Lumsden said the Lynebain bridge which spans the Deveron was used daily by three primary school children.

He added that he understood from the community council that the bridge was in a dangerous state, the handrails being covered with a thin gauge netting wire fixed on three strands of fence wire.

In his report to the committee, Mr Kennedy said a survey of this bridge indicated that the stone and lime piers were in a very bad state and could be in danger of being washed away when the river was in spate.  He also reported that the guardrails needed upgrading with heavy chain link-type mesh to improve safety.

At Wallakirk, part of the HERITAGE TRAIL, Mr Kennedy said the deck planking needed to be replaced.